Emergency crews in Santo Domingo continued desperate search operations through Tuesday night after the catastrophic collapse of the Jet Set nightclub roof killed at least 113 people and injured 155 others during a packed merengue concert.
The disaster struck during a performance by popular Dominican artist Rubby Pérez, whose body was recovered Wednesday morning alongside other prominent victims including former MLB pitcher Octavio Dotel and Monte Cristi province governor Nelsy Cruz.
Distraught relatives had gathered near the disaster site as heavy equipment removed debris to locate potential survivors. “We don’t know what happened to them,” said retired MLB star Pedro Martinez in an emotional Instagram video about missing family members. The Dominican government has deployed additional rescue resources while providing psychological support to affected families, though officials are saying the final death toll may rise as search teams comb through the wreckage.
Prominent Figures Among Nightclub Tragedy Victims
The collapse claimed several notable lives including former New York Mets pitcher Octavio Dotel, who played for 13 MLB teams over his 14-year career before being pulled critically injured from the rubble. Other victims included Eduardo Guarionex Estrella, son of Public Works Minister Eduardo Estrella, and provincial governor Nelsy Cruz – sister of seven-time MLB All-Star Nelson Cruz. Current Mets manager Carlos Mendoza expressed condolences, reflecting the deep baseball community ties to the tragedy.
Investigation Launched Into Structural Failure
Authorities have not yet determined what caused the sudden collapse during the crowded concert event attended by politicians, athletes, and local celebrities. Presidential spokesperson Homero Figueroa confirmed the use of specialized equipment to accelerate debris removal while structural engineers began examining the site. The disaster makes it one of the deadliest building collapses in recent Dominican history, raising urgent questions about venue safety standards as the nation declares three days of mourning.
This tragic incident has drawn global attention, with Dominican President Luis Abinader personally overseeing response efforts. Emergency officials now face mounting challenges as they work to identify victims and notify families, while forensic teams prepare to analyze the structural remains.
