SANTO DOMINGO, DR – A night that was supposed to be a celebration of Dominican music and culture turned into an unimaginable tragedy early Sunday morning, when the roof of the famed Jet Set Nightclub in Santo Domingo collapsed during a live performance by merengue legend Rubby Pérez. The sudden and catastrophic collapse led to the loss of several lives, dozens more injured, and left the music community and the public in a state of shock.
The tragic event occurred during a highly anticipated performance by Rubby Pérez, a popular merengue artist renowned for his contributions to Dominican music. Fans filled the nightclub to enjoy the high-energy rhythms of the genre, with Pérez at the helm, creating a festive atmosphere typical of the vibrant Dominican music scene. However, the celebration took a devastating turn when, in the midst of the performance, the ceiling of the venue suddenly caved in, crushing concertgoers and musicians alike.
Reports from survivors and eyewitnesses describe scenes of confusion and panic. As the roof came down, debris and fallen structures trapped people beneath the wreckage. Panic spread quickly through the club, with people attempting to flee the building, while others rushed to assist the injured. The collapse left dozens of people pinned under rubble, with emergency responders racing to the scene. Rescue operations, which included paramedics, fire services, and local police, were swift but faced challenges due to the extent of the damage and the number of people involved.
At the time of the collapse, Rubby Pérez was performing on stage, and he, too, became trapped under the debris. After a tense and harrowing rescue operation, Pérez was thankfully freed, though he sustained injuries and was taken to a local hospital for treatment. His survival, while a relief to many, was overshadowed by the growing toll of the disaster.
As of the latest updates, multiple fatalities have been confirmed, with the number continuing to rise as more victims are found amid the wreckage. The identities of the victims have not all been released, but local authorities confirmed that many of the casualties were attendees of the concert, while some of the club’s staff members were also among the deceased. In addition to those who lost their lives, over fifty people have been reported injured, with a significant portion of them in critical condition. The injured were swiftly transported to nearby hospitals, where medical teams are working around the clock to provide care.
The collapse of the Jet Set Nightclub has sparked widespread outrage and concern, leading many to question the safety standards of public venues. The Dominican government has pledged a full investigation into the incident, vowing to hold those responsible for any lapses in safety accountable. The nightclub, which has long been a staple in the local nightlife scene, is now under scrutiny, with authorities examining the structural integrity of the building and the quality of its construction.
In the aftermath, the music community, as well as the general public, are in mourning. Rubby Pérez, a beloved figure in Dominican culture, has expressed his sorrow and condolences for the victims, calling the event a tragic loss for both the Dominican people and the music industry. Local leaders have also rallied in support of the families affected, with grief-stricken citizens offering their prayers and solidarity.
This tragedy serves as a stark reminder of the potential dangers that can lurk behind public celebrations and raises critical questions about ensuring the safety of individuals in venues meant for large gatherings. As the investigation continues, the people of Santo Domingo and beyond are left to grapple with the profound loss and the pain of a night that began in celebration but ended in heartbreak.