Ceiling of Popular Nightclub Collapses, 27 Killed, 120 Injured

Tragedy struck early Tuesday, April 8, when the ceiling of a popular nightclub in the Dominican Republic’s capital collapsed, killing at least 27 people and injuring more than 120 others.

The incident occurred at Jet Set nightclub in Santo Domingo shortly after midnight during a live performance by renowned merengue singer Rubby Pérez. According to authorities, a portion of the roof caved in while the venue was packed with concertgoers.

Emergency crews rushed to the scene and began a massive search-and-rescue operation. Juan Manuel Méndez, director of the Center for Emergency Operations, said rescuers are continuing efforts to locate survivors trapped under the rubble. “We presume that many of them are still alive, and that is why the authorities here will not give up until every person is accounted for,” Méndez stated.

Among the confirmed fatalities was Nelsy Cruz, the governor of Montecristi province. The singer Rubby Pérez was among the injured, though his condition has not been reported as critical. His manager, Enrique Paulino, described the chaotic moment of the collapse, saying, “It happened so quickly. I managed to throw myself into a corner. At first, I thought it was an earthquake.”

Paulino added that the concert began just before midnight and the collapse occurred roughly an hour later. Tragically, the group’s saxophonist was killed in the incident.

President Luis Abinader responded swiftly, sharing a message of condolence and solidarity on social media. “We deeply regret the tragedy that occurred at the Jet Set nightclub. All rescue agencies are working tirelessly to help those affected,” he wrote on X. The president later visited the scene, offering support to grieving families and comforting those still searching for loved ones.

Outside the nightclub, emergency officials used megaphones to plead with the crowd to make way for ambulances. “You have to cooperate with authorities, please. We are removing people,” one official said.

At nearby hospitals, staff worked to identify the injured. In one emotional scene, a hospital worker read out the names of survivors as family members and friends anxiously listened, calling out the names of their loved ones.

The exact cause of the collapse has not yet been determined. Authorities have launched an investigation into the incident, focusing on whether structural issues or overcrowding may have contributed to the disaster.