Jet Set Nightclub Collapse (2025)

The Jet Set Nightclub Collapse refers to a mass casualty incident that occurred on April 8, 2025, when the roof of the Jet Set nightclub in Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic, collapsed during a live performance.

The Incident

On April 8, 2025, the roof of the Jet Set nightclub in Santo Domingo collapsed while the venue was hosting a live concert by merengue singer Rubby Pérez. Reports indicate that between 300 and 1000 people were inside the venue at the time. According to eyewitnesses, dust began falling from the ceiling shortly before the structure fully gave way and collapsed.

Fatalities and Injuries

According to the Dominican Republic’s Emergency Operations Center, at least 98 people were confirmed dead, while between 160 and 223 were reported injured. Among the deceased were Nelsy Cruz, the governor of Monte Cristi Province; former Major League Baseball players Octavio Dotel and Tony Blanco; and reportedly, Rubby Pérez himself. Dotel was initially rescued alive but later died en route to the hospital. The identification of other victims continued over several days.

Rescue Efforts

Emergency responders, including firefighters, medical personnel, and civil defense teams, were dispatched to the scene. Nearly 400 personnel participated in the rescue operation. Areas where survivors were suspected to be trapped were prioritized, and silence was enforced to detect cries for help from under the rubble. Rescue teams used wood planks and heavy machinery to remove debris. Temporary morgues were established near the site, and blood donation centers were opened. The National Institute of Forensic Pathology used photo identification to assist in victim recognition.

Search and rescue operations after the collapse at the Jet Set nightclub, April 8, 2025 - Anadolu Agency

Official Response and Mourning Period

President Luis Abinader declared a three-day period of national mourning following the tragedy. He and First Lady Raquel Arbaje visited the site to inspect ongoing rescue operations and receive briefings. The President confirmed that all relevant government agencies were actively participating in the emergency response. The Mayor of Santo Domingo, Carolina Mejía, also issued public condolences. At least 22 public institutions contributed to the rescue and recovery efforts.

Eyewitness Accounts

Witnesses inside the venue reported seeing dust falling from the ceiling, followed by a sudden and loud collapse. Some attendees described ducking into corners or pressing against walls to shield themselves from the falling debris.

Investigation and Club Management Statements

An official investigation was launched to determine the cause of the structural failure. Authorities have not disclosed when the building was last inspected. Jet Set nightclub owner Antonio Espaillat, who was abroad at the time, returned and stated that he was cooperating with authorities. The nightclub management released a statement indicating full transparency and collaboration with the investigation.

Current Status and Rising Death Toll

The number of fatalities in the roof collapse at the Jet Set nightclub in Santo Domingo, the capital of the Dominican Republic, has risen to 184. More than 200 people were injured in the incident, and rescue operations were halted approximately 48 hours after the collapse. The roof gave way during a merengue concert featuring Rubby Pérez. Among the deceased are a retired United Nations official, New York-based fashion designer Martín Polanco, a Dominican army captain, and several senior figures from the private banking sector. The cause of the collapse has not yet been disclosed; technical assessments and a judicial investigation are ongoing.