roof collapse at Santo Domingo airport

Santo Domingo Roof Collapse: 18 Dead, Hundreds Injured

In the early hours of April 8, 2025, what was supposed to be a joyful night at the Jet Set nightclub in Santo Domingo turned into an unimaginable tragedy. As the well-known merengue singer Rubby Pérez performed for an excited crowd, disaster struck. Without warning, the nightclub's roof suddenly collapsed, sending chaos through the venue.

Immediate Impact

The collapse left at least 18 people dead and more than 120 injured. Among the victims was Nelsy Cruz, the governor of Montecristi, making the loss feel even more personal for many. Pérez, thankfully, survived but was injured in the chaos. Sadly, his saxophonist was not as fortunate and lost his life in the collapse.

Rescue Efforts Underway

In the aftermath, emergency responders, including firefighters and medical teams, rushed to the scene. Their job was grueling and dangerous, as they worked tirelessly to search for survivors trapped in the rubble. While conditions remained tough, their determination never wavered as they continued their efforts to bring people to safety.

National Mourning and Reflection

President Luis Abinader expressed his deep sorrow over the tragedy and promised to mobilize every resource available to support the victims and their families. He assured the public that a thorough investigation would be conducted to determine how the collapse happened and ensure it never happens again.

Global Outpouring of Support

The news has shaken not just those in the Dominican Republic but people around the world. Social media has been flooded with heartfelt messages of support, with many expressing their shock and sympathy for the families affected. The incident has also sparked important conversations about building safety and the need for stricter regulations and inspections to protect public venues.

As the rescue efforts continue and the investigation unfolds, the people of Santo Domingo and the entire country are mourning together. This tragic event serves as a painful reminder of how fragile life can be and how essential it is to prioritize safety in spaces where we gather.