In the early hours of Tuesday, a devastating incident occurred at the renowned Jet Set nightclub in Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic, when part of its ceiling collapsed. Preliminary reports from the Center of Emergency Operations (COE) indicate that at least 27 individuals have lost their lives, with more than a hundred others injured.
The calamity struck during a performance by the celebrated Dominican merengue singer, Rubby Pérez, who was safely rescued and taken to a hospital, as confirmed by his producer, Ivo Terrero. Unfortunately, one of Pérez's band members was among the deceased.
Regrettably, the death toll has been steadily rising since the tragic event unfolded. A 39-second video captured by a witness revealed the moments leading up to the disaster, where a man could be heard describing the lively atmosphere over the phone just before the roof gave way.
Chaos and Rescue Efforts
The collapse was preceded by partial structural failures, prompting some cautious individuals to vacate the premises in time. The sudden disaster triggered chaos among the hundreds of attendees enjoying the traditional Monday night festivities.
Authorities have reported that 46 individuals have been rescued and transported to medical facilities, though it is feared that more victims remain trapped beneath the debris. General Juan Manuel Méndez, head of the COE, confirmed that at least 101 people have been taken to various hospitals by ambulance. He cautioned that the number of injured could be higher, as some ambulances carried multiple casualties in a single journey.
Signs of Life Amidst the Rubble
Rescue teams, supported by the District National Fire Department's Jurón Unit, the Civil Defense, the Ministry of Defense, and the National Emergency System 9-1-1, are racing against time using thermal cameras and acoustic sensors. Signals of life have been detected, and some trapped individuals have managed to communicate with their families via phone.
"People inside the nightclub are calling for help, so we will continue our efforts until we find them," Méndez assured the press. Additionally, a support tent has been set up for families, providing psychological assistance services.
Government Response
Dominican Republic President Luis Abinader expressed profound sorrow over the incident, stating that the government is monitoring the situation closely. “We deeply regret the tragedy that occurred at the Jet Set nightclub. We have been following the case minute by minute since it happened. All emergency agencies are providing the necessary assistance and are tirelessly working on rescue operations. Our prayers are with the affected families,” he wrote.
The National Police and COE have not ruled out the possibility of an increasing death toll in the coming hours. The structure's collapse has left an undetermined number of individuals trapped, keeping rescue teams and victims' families on edge.
FAQs about the Santo Domingo Nightclub Collapse
What caused the roof to collapse at the Jet Set nightclub?
The collapse was reportedly preceded by partial structural failures, although the exact cause is still under investigation by authorities.
How many people have been rescued from the nightclub?
As of the latest reports, 46 individuals have been rescued and taken to medical facilities.
What is the current status of the rescue operations?
Rescue teams are actively working with thermal cameras and acoustic sensors to locate and assist any remaining trapped individuals.