Popular Singer Rubby Perez and Ex-MLB Star Among Victims
A horrifying tragedy unfolded in the Dominican Republic as the roof of a well-known nightclub collapsed during a live performance, killing nearly 100 people and injuring more than 150 others.
The Jet Set nightclub in Santo Domingo, one of the country’s oldest and most iconic venues, was packed with fans enjoying a live concert by Dominican merengue legend Rubby Perez when disaster struck just after midnight on Tuesday, April 8, 2025.
Perez, who was performing on stage at the time, was among those killed, according to his manager Enrique Paulino. “We are waiting for the children to reach an agreement for the funeral,” he told reporters, mourning the loss of the beloved artist.
Tragically, former Major League Baseball pitcher Octavio Dotel also lost his life. The 51-year-old World Series winner with the St. Louis Cardinals in 2011 was rescued alive but succumbed to his injuries while being rushed to the hospital.
Authorities reported that over 500 people were inside the club—some standing, some seated—when the roof suddenly caved in, crushing attendees beneath rubble made of bricks, steel, and tin sheets.
Rescue Efforts and Rising Death Toll
Rescue operations began immediately, with more than 370 emergency workers deployed to the scene. A crane and heavy equipment were brought in to help lift the debris as search teams dug desperately for survivors.
Helicopter footage revealed a gaping hole where the club’s roof used to be. By early Wednesday, the official death toll had climbed to 98, according to Juan Manuel Mendez, director of the Emergency Operations Center.
“As long as there is hope for life, all authorities will be working to recover or rescue these people,” he assured the nation.
President Luis Abinader visited the site, declaring three days of national mourning. Among the dead was also Nelsy Cruz, the governor of the Monte Cristi municipality.
Eyewitnesses Recount Horror
Survivors described scenes of pure chaos. Iris Pena, who had attended the concert with her son, said the disaster struck without warning.
“At one point, dirt started falling like dust into our drinks. Then a stone cracked our table, and we just ran. It felt like an earthquake or a tsunami,” she said.
Rubby Perez’s daughter, Zulinka, survived the collapse but her father did not. Outside the club and nearby hospitals, distraught families waited for news. “We are desperate,” cried Regina del Rosa, whose sister was at the show. “No one is telling us anything.”
Club’s Statement and Ongoing Investigation
Jet Set, which has hosted top-tier concerts for over 50 years, had invited fans to “enjoy Rubby Perez’s greatest hits and dance in the country’s best nightclub” just hours before the tragedy. On Tuesday, the club released a statement saying it was cooperating fully with authorities.
Meanwhile, officials are calling on the public to donate blood to support the many injured victims still fighting for survival.
The Dominican Republic, a Caribbean hotspot known for its music, beaches, and nightlife, attracts millions of tourists each year.
This devastating event has now cast a dark shadow over a nation known for celebration.
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