A night of celebration turned tragic in the Dominican Republic after the roof of Jet Set, a popular nightclub in Santo Domingo, collapsed during a live performance, leaving dozens dead and many more injured.
Among the attendees was former MLB relief pitcher Octavio Dotel, who, according to updated reports, has died from injuries sustained during the collapse.
The incident occurred shortly after 1 a.m. on April 8, while Dominican merengue legend Rubby Pérez was performing.
The club was packed with patrons enjoying the show when the roof suddenly gave way. Initial reports confirmed at least 44 fatalities and more than 160 injuries. Emergency services responded swiftly, pulling survivors from the debris and rushing them to nearby hospitals.
High-Profile casualties and a nation in mourning
One of the victims identified early on was Nelsy Cruz, sister of MLB All-Star Nelson Cruz and governor of Monte Cristi Province. Her death sent shockwaves through the nation and the international sports community.
Octavio Dotel, who made his MLB debut in 1999 and was a World Series champion with the St. Louis Cardinals in 2011, was also inside the venue when the structure gave way. He was initially reported as injured but alive. However, later updates confirmed the 51-year-old former pitcher succumbed to his injuries while en route to the hospital.
The cause of the collapse remains under investigation, though questions about building safety and overcrowding have already begun surfacing. Jet Set has long been a mainstay in the city’s nightlife, known for hosting high-profile events and musical acts. The disaster has prompted widespread calls for stricter enforcement of safety standards in public venues.
Dominican President Luis Abinader visited the scene and expressed his condolences, pledging full government support to assist victims and investigate the tragedy thoroughly.
As the country grieves, tributes are pouring in for those lost – from fans, friends, and former teammates of Dotel, to constituents of Nelsy Cruz. What began as a night of music and joy has turned into one of the darkest days in recent Dominican memory.
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