Dominican Republic Nightclub Collapse During Concert Kills 98; Governor and Former MLB Stars Among Victims

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Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic – April 9, 2025

Dominican Republic Nightclub Collapse—In a devastating incident that has shocked the world, the roof of the famed Jet Set Nightclub in Santo Domingo collapsed during a packed merengue concert early Tuesday morning, killing 98 people and injuring over 160 others. Among the dead are high-profile figures, including Nelsy Cruz, governor of Monte Cristi province, and two former Major League Baseball (MLB) players — Octavio Dotel and Tony Blanco.

The concert, which drew a large crowd of local dignitaries, athletes, and fans of Dominican music, turned tragic within minutes as the building’s roof gave way. The Center of Emergency Operations swiftly responded, deploying rescue crews who worked relentlessly through the night to search for survivors amid the rubble.

MLB Loses Legends: Octavio Dotel and Tony Blanco

Octavio Dotel, 51, a beloved figure in both Dominican and American baseball circles, was pulled from the debris but succumbed to his injuries en route to the hospital. Dotel made his MLB debut with the New York Mets in 1999 and played for over a dozen teams including the Houston Astros, New York Yankees, Oakland A’s, and Detroit Tigers during a career that spanned 14 years.

Tony Blanco, a respected Dominican power hitter, also lost his life in the collapse. Known for his stints in international leagues including Japan and Korea, Blanco was revered in the Caribbean for his dedication to youth baseball development.

The Dominican Professional Baseball League (LIDOM) confirmed the deaths on social media platform X (formerly Twitter), expressing deep sorrow over the loss of two of the country’s finest athletes.

“We are heartbroken. Octavio Dotel and Tony Blanco were more than athletes; they were symbols of hope and pride for the Dominican Republic,” said a statement by LIDOM.

Governor Nelsy Cruz Among the Dead

President Luis Abinader confirmed the tragic death of Governor Nelsy Cruz, the sister of MLB star Nelson Cruz, and extended his condolences to the family. President Abinader visited the collapse site, comforting grieving families and affirming that the government will “leave no stone unturned” in rescue and relief efforts.

“We deeply regret the tragedy that occurred at the Jet Set nightclub. Rescue operations will continue around the clock,” the President said.

Rescue Teams Still Searching for Survivors

Juan Manuel Méndez, director of the Center of Emergency Operations, reported that emergency responders are focusing on three specific zones inside the collapsed nightclub.

“We’re hearing some sounds. We continue clearing debris and searching for people. We’re going to search tirelessly,” Méndez told reporters.

The fate of popular merengue artist Rubby Pérez remains unknown. While early reports suggested he had been rescued, officials later clarified that he is still missing and efforts to find him are ongoing.

Investigations Underway

The Jet Set nightclub, a landmark venue in the Dominican nightlife scene, issued a statement promising full cooperation with the investigation. Owner Antonio Espaillat, who was abroad at the time of the collapse, returned to the country late Tuesday.

Authorities are now examining the structural integrity of the nightclub and whether safety protocols were followed. Initial reports suggest that the building, although one-storey, may have been weakened by recent renovations and weather-related wear.

This tragedy is a somber reminder of how fragile life can be. As the Dominican Republic mourns its lost heroes, the world joins in solidarity, remembering the lives of Nelsy Cruz, Octavio Dotel, Tony Blanco, and the many others who perished in this horrific event.

Our thoughts and prayers are with all the families affected.