On Wednesday, hopes of finding more survivors in the devastating roof collapse at the Jet Set nightclub in the Dominican Republic began to diminish. Authorities reported that no one had been discovered alive in the debris since Tuesday afternoon, casting a shadow over the ongoing rescue efforts.
The tragic incident occurred early Tuesday morning during a live merengue concert when the roof of the popular dance club in Santo Domingo caved in around 12:45 a.m. According to Juan Manuel Méndez, the director of the Dominican Emergency Operations Center, the disaster has claimed the lives of at least 113 people as of Wednesday.
In their quest for survivors, authorities deployed heavy machinery, search dogs, drones, and specialized equipment to meticulously sift through the rubble. Families anxiously awaited updates outside the nightclub, hoping for news about their loved ones. Mr. Méndez noted that the number of individuals transported to hospitals remained unchanged from 3 p.m. the previous day, totaling 155 patients. He emphasized that many ambulances had carried more than one person, highlighting the scale of the tragedy.
Among the casualties was Rubby Pérez, the entertainer who was performing at the nightclub when the roof collapsed. His body was recovered early Wednesday, adding to the heartbreak felt by the community. The Jet Set nightclub held a special place in the hearts of many in the Dominican Republic, where people gathered for decades, especially on Monday nights.
The devastating collapse has left a profound impact on the nation, as the club was frequented by entertainers, athletes, and politicians. The list of notable individuals lost includes two former Major League Baseball players, a governor, and a renowned fashion designer. Additionally, a member of the Dominican congress sustained serious injuries in the disaster.
This tragic event at Jet Set nightclub not only marks a significant loss for the families affected but also underscores the need for enhanced safety measures in public venues to prevent such disasters in the future.
