Tragedy strikes Dominican Republic nightclub: 27 killed, over 160 injured in roof collapse during Rubby Perez concert

A roof collapse at the iconic Jet Set nightclub in Santo Domingo claimed at least 27 lives and injured more than 160 people, according to emergency officials in the Dominican Republic. Rescue efforts were still underway hours after the tragedy as authorities feared more people remained trapped under the rubble.

Packed nightclub turns deadly

The collapse, occurred during a concert headlined by Rubby Pérez, began shortly before midnight, and the roof caved in nearly an hour later.

“It happened so quickly. I managed to throw myself into a corner,” said Enrique Paulino, Pérez’s manager, his shirt stained with blood. “I initially thought it was an earthquake.”

Pérez survived the incident but was injured. His saxophonist was killed in the collapse.

High-profile casualties

Among the victims was Nelsy Cruz, governor of Montecristi province. Notable injured attendees included former Major League Baseball pitcher Octavio Dotel, legislator Bray Vargas, and singer Rubby Pérez.

The government confirmed that emergency agencies were working around the clock to manage the rescue and recovery operation.

“We presume many are still alive”

Juan Manuel Méndez, director of the Center of Emergency Operations, said crews were carefully combing through debris to locate survivors.

“We presume that many of them are still alive, and that is why the authorities here will not give up until not a single person remains under that rubble.”

Families wait in anguish

Dozens of anxious family members waited outside the nightclub, desperate for news of missing loved ones. Among them was Manuel Olivo Ortiz, whose son had attended the concert and had not returned home.

“We’re holding on only to God,” he said.

Outside a nearby hospital, officials read aloud the names of survivors as worried relatives clung to hope.

President Abinader visits scene

President Luis Abinader visited the scene on Tuesday morning, offering comfort to the grieving. While he did not address the press, his presence brought some solace to those searching for loved ones.

“We deeply regret the tragedy that occurred at the Jet Set nightclub. We have been following the incident minute by minute since it occurred,” Abinader wrote on X, adding that rescue agencies are ‘working tirelessly’.

Call for calm and cooperation

As the crowd swelled around the disaster site, an official used a megaphone to plead for order and space for emergency workers.

“You have to cooperate with authorities, please,” he urged. “We are removing people.”

Cause still unknown

Authorities have not yet determined what caused the roof collapse. The Jet Set nightclub, a staple in Santo Domingo's nightlife scene, is known for its popular Monday-night parties featuring renowned national and international artists.

Investigations are underway as the country mourns one of the worst peacetime disasters in its recent history.

(With AFP inputs)