A tragic roof collapse at the Jet Set nightclub in Santo Domingo, the capital of the Dominican Republic, has resulted in the loss of at least 66 lives, including prominent figures such as Nelsy Cruz, the governor of Monte Cristi province, and former Major League Baseball (MLB) pitcher Octavio Dotel. The incident has also left approximately 160 individuals injured, with emergency services continuing to search for survivors amidst the wreckage.
Juan Manuel Mendez, the head of the Dominican Republic’s emergency operations center, reported that rescue operations are still ongoing, although the exact number of patrons in the nightclub at the time of the calamity remains uncertain. Local estimates suggest that as many as 1,000 people may have been present when the incident occurred early on Tuesday morning.
This devastating event occurred during a concert that drew various politicians, athletes, and public figures. Former MLB pitcher Dotel, who played for an array of teams, including the New York Mets and the Chicago White Sox, tragically succumbed to injuries en route to a local hospital, as confirmed by a spokesperson from the nation’s Ministry of Sports. The Dominican Republic’s Professional Baseball League expressed its heartfelt condolences over Dotel’s untimely death, underscoring the deep sense of loss felt within the community.
Witnesses, including concertgoer Iris Pena, described the chaotic moments leading up to the collapse, which she likened to a seismic event. As debris began to fall, she managed to escape with her son, highlighting the intensity of the situation. Meanwhile, family members of missing individuals have gathered at local hospitals, anxiously awaiting news about their loved ones, revealing the emotional toll this tragedy has taken on the community.
Images from the scene show significant structural damage, with a construction crane assisting in the removal of debris as emergency workers tirelessly sift through the rubble. Authorities have also called upon citizens to donate blood to support the injured.
President Luis Abinader, who visited the site, emphasized the primary objective of the ongoing efforts: saving lives. The Jet Set nightclub, a beloved establishment in operation for over 50 years, stated it has fully cooperated with authorities to investigate the incident.
The Dominican Republic, renowned for its stunning Caribbean beaches and vibrant nightlife, has welcomed over 11 million tourists in recent years, with tourism accounting for approximately 15% of the nation’s GDP. This incident will undoubtedly impact the local and national landscape, as the country mourns the lives lost and supports the injured in their recovery.
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