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Tragic Nightclub Roof Collapse in Santo Domingo Claims More Lives
SANTO DOMINGO, Dominican Republic (AP) — The aftermath of a devastating roof collapse at a well-known nightclub has resulted in the death toll rising to 226, according to health officials. The latest victim, a 41-year-old Costa Rican woman, died following her hospitalization after the tragic event.
Early reports indicated that four additional individuals hospitalized due to injuries sustained during the incident passed away overnight. The disaster occurred during a merengue concert at the Jet Set nightclub in the capital, where 189 people were rescued alive from the debris, while over 200 sustained injuries. As of the latest updates, 14 individuals remain in the hospital, with four reported in critical condition.
The roof collapsed as concert-goers, including notable figures from politics, sports, and fashion, were enjoying the performance. Eyewitnesses described the chaotic scene as the venue filled with panic moments after the roof gave way.
As the situation unfolded, families of the victims gathered at a forensics institute, anxiously waiting for updates. Officials have confirmed that 225 bodies have been returned to grieving relatives, as the identification process has been complicated by the need for biometric verification, according to Health Minister Victor Attalah.
Notable victims include former Major League Baseball players Octavio Dotel and Tony Enrique Blanco Cabrera. The tragedy also claimed the life of Nelsy Cruz, the governor of Montecristi province, whose brother is MLB All-Star Nelson Cruz.
Investigations into the cause of the roof collapse are still in their early stages. Authorities have not yet determined the factors that led to the incident, although prosecutors visited the nightclub site shortly after rescue operations concluded.
In a show of solidarity and mourning, President Luis Abinader and First Lady Raquel Arbaje attended the memorial service of singer Rubby Pérez, who was performing when the tragic event occurred. Mourners filled Santo Domingo’s National Theater, many in tears as they listened to Pérez’s rendition of the national anthem.
Community Impact and Response
The nightclub’s collapse has sent shockwaves throughout the Dominican Republic, raising questions about building safety regulations and emergency preparedness for public venues. Community leaders have called for thorough inspections and reforms in the nightlife industry to prevent such tragedies in the future.
As the investigation continues, the focus remains on supporting the affected families and ensuring that the lives lost are honored through meaningful changes in policy and safety standards across similar establishments.
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