221 Dead in Santo Domingo Nightclub Collapse: Dominican Republic Declares National Mourning
Dozens of people attend the burial of two, of the so far 221 people dead due to the collapse of the ceiling in the disco Jet Set, this Thursday in Santo Domingo. Apr 10, 2025 Photo: EFE
April 10, 2025 Hour: 10:20 pm
221 killed as Jet Set nightclub roof collapses during concert in Santo Domingo. Rescuers save 189; national mourning declared.
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Santo Domingo Nightclub Disaster’s Death Toll to 124
Nightclub Collapse in Santo Domingo Leaves 221 Dead
The Dominican Republic faces its worst disaster in decades after the roof of Jet Set nightclub collapsed during a live concert early Tuesday morning. Among the dead is famed merengue artist Rubby Pérez, who was performing at the event.
Rescue Efforts and Rising Death Toll
Juan Manuel Méndez, director of the Emergency Operations Center (COE), confirmed 189 survivors but struggled to hold back tears as he announced the death toll had reached 221. “The scale of this tragedy is overwhelming,” he stated during a press briefing.
Forensic Teams Work Around the Clock
Health Minister Victor Atallah assured families that forensic teams were expediting victim identification despite required autopsy protocols. “We’re processing cases at record speed to return loved ones,” he said.
National Mourning Declared
President Luis Abinader ordered three days of national mourning through April 13, with flags flown at half-mast nationwide. The tragedy claimed prominent figures, including designer Martín Polanco and former MLB players Octavio Dotel and Tony Blanco.
Investigation and Collective Grief
Authorities continue aiding affected families while preparing a final report on the collapse’s cause. The disaster has left the Caribbean nation in shock, uniting citizens in grief over an unprecedented loss of life.
Autor: MLM
Fuente: EFE