SANTO DOMINGO, Dominican Republic – A catastrophic roof collapse at the Jet Set nightclub in Santo Domingo during a merengue concert has resulted in the deaths of at least 44 people and injuries to 160 others, according to Dominican civil defense authorities.
The tragic incident occurred at 12:34 AM on Tuesday, April 8, 2025, during a performance by Dominican merengue singer Rubby Pérez. Within seconds, the nightclub’s roof collapsed, causing widespread chaos and devastation.
Rescue workers, including police, firefighters, and emergency personnel, immediately initiated a search-and-rescue operation within the debris. The scene was marked by frantic efforts to locate and extract survivors.
Among the deceased was Montecristi Governor Nelsy Milagros Cruz, as confirmed by national police and the office of Dominican Republic President Luis Abinader.
“We deeply regret the tragedy that occurred at the Jet Set nightclub,” President Abinader expressed in a social media post. “We have been following the incident minute by minute since it occurred. All relief agencies have provided the necessary assistance and are working tirelessly in the rescue efforts. Our prayers are with the affected families.”
Distressed families gathered at the scene, desperately seeking information about their loved ones who were inside the nightclub during the collapse. DJ Shakirax, who was present at the event, shared videos depicting the scene’s aftermath.
Authorities have launched an investigation into the cause of the collapse. It has been revealed that a fire in 2023 had previously damaged a portion of the nightclub.
The incident has plunged the Dominican Republic into mourning, with a focus on providing support to the victims and their families while determining the factors that contributed to the deadly collapse.

