SANTO DOMINGO, Dominican Republic — Emotions ran high outside the Dominican Republic’s National Institute of Forensic Pathology on Wednesday, where anxious families gathered, desperate for updates on loved ones still missing after a catastrophic roof collapse at a popular nightclub. The disaster, one of the deadliest in the country’s recent history, has claimed at least 124 lives and injured more than 250 people.
As officials read aloud the names of the 54 victims identified so far, tension in the crowd escalated. One woman, visibly distraught after not hearing her relative’s name, cried out, “We cannot wait until nighttime! We’re going to go crazy!”
Authorities urged calm, noting that 28 bodies had already been returned to families. However, they acknowledged they still had not accounted for all the deceased or completed the full recovery.
Grief turned into frustration for many waiting outside. “The authorities are selling us false dreams!” shouted José Sánchez, whose brother and brother-in-law remain unaccounted for.
The tragedy unfolded late Tuesday at the legendary Jet Set nightclub in Santo Domingo, a venue known for hosting elite guests including musicians, athletes, and public officials. During a high-energy merengue concert, patrons began noticing dust falling from the ceiling—an ominous sign that was soon followed by disaster. The entire roof gave way, sending massive concrete slabs crashing down on the crowded dance floor.
Emergency services were inundated with calls—over 100 came in to the nation’s 911 system in the immediate aftermath, many from people trapped under rubble. Rescue efforts have continued around the clock.
Among the dead are several prominent figures, according to local media, including a cardiologist, a government architect, a retired police officer, and the brother of a vice minister from the Ministry of Youth.
The sports world was also struck by the loss. Satosky Terrero, spokesperson for the Dominican Republic’s Professional Baseball League, confirmed the deaths of former MLB pitcher Octavio Dotel and Dominican professional baseball player Tony Enrique Blanco Cabrera.
As the country reels from this heartbreaking event, questions are being raised about safety protocols and building conditions at public venues. For now, the focus remains on identifying victims and supporting grieving families as they confront an unimaginable loss.
