A festive night in Santo Domingo turned tragic when the roof of the iconic Jet Set nightclub collapsed early Tuesday, killing at least 12 people and injuring over 45. The incident occurred during a live performance, trapping many, including famed singer Rubby Pérez, under the debris. Emergency crews are now in a desperate race against time to rescue any remaining survivors from the rubble of the once-vibrant venue.
The Moment the Celebration Turned to Horror
Witnesses described a scene of pure chaos. One moment, the nightclub was filled with the sounds of merengue music and dancing; the next, the ceiling gave way in an instant. Screams replaced the music as the structure came crashing down on the packed crowd.
The collapse plunged the venue into darkness and panic. Partygoers, many injured and covered in dust, scrambled to find a way out through the twisted metal and shattered glass that littered the dance floor. Survivor accounts paint a grim picture of a place of joy transforming into a site of unimaginable fear in seconds.
An All-Out Response to Save Lives
Rescue operations began almost immediately, with every branch of the Dominican Republic’s disaster response system mobilized. General Juan Manuel Méndez, head of the Emergency Operations Center (COE), called it an “all hands on deck” effort involving the Navy, Fire Department, and other critical agencies.
The rescue has been aided by modern technology and the bravery of those trapped inside. Rescuers are focusing their efforts on specific zones based on critical information received from survivors.
- Several trapped individuals have managed to use their cell phones to call for help.
- Communication from within the wreckage has been described as “instrumental” in guiding rescue teams.
- Crews are working carefully as the building’s remaining structure is highly unstable, posing a risk of secondary collapses.
Outside, emotional family members have gathered behind police cordons, anxiously awaiting news of their loved ones as the search continues around the clock.
Questions Arise as Investigators Search for a Cause
While the immediate focus remains on saving lives, questions about what caused the catastrophic failure are already emerging. Authorities have not yet confirmed the reason for the collapse but have dispatched structural engineers to begin a thorough investigation.
The building was a popular and frequently used venue, hosting hundreds of events each year. Social media videos from moments before the incident show a tightly packed crowd enjoying the concert. Officials have stated the area will remain closed until both the rescue and forensic investigations are complete.
| Location | Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic |
| Fatalities | At least 12 confirmed |
| Injuries | Over 45 reported |
| Notable Person | Singer Rubby Pérez injured and trapped |
| Status | Rescue and investigation ongoing |
A Legacy of Joy Marred by Tragedy
For decades, Jet Set was a cornerstone of nightlife in the Dominican capital, known for its live music and energetic atmosphere that attracted locals, tourists, and celebrities. The venue’s identity was deeply intertwined with the city’s culture.
Tuesday’s disaster has irrevocably changed that legacy. The nightclub is now a symbol of grief and loss. Survivors have shared heartbreaking stories, with one woman saying, “It was supposed to be a night to remember — and it was, just not in the way we imagined.” The future of the iconic venue remains uncertain.
