A devastating roof collapse at the Jet Set nightclub in Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic, killed at least 18 people and injured more than 120 others early Tuesday, authorities said.
The incident occurred during a performance by merengue artist Rubby Pérez, who was among those injured. His saxophonist was killed in the collapse.
The Dominican Republic National Police confirmed the death toll, noting that emergency teams are still combing through the debris for survivors. At least 300 people were inside the venue at the time of the collapse, CNN reported.
Juan Manuel Méndez, director of the Emergency Operations Centre, said ambulances made over 100 trips to local hospitals, often transporting multiple victims at a time. Images from the site show firefighters and rescue workers in orange vests searching for victims among a chaotic pile of concrete and debris, with stretchers lined up nearby.
“We presume that many of them are still alive, and that is why the authorities here will not give up until not a single person remains under that rubble,” said Méndez.
The collapse happened around 1 a.m., catching hundreds of concertgoers off guard. Witnesses described a sudden, deafening crash followed by panic as the crowd scrambled for safety.
“We deeply regret the tragedy that occurred at the Jet Set nightclub,” Dominican President Luis Abinader wrote on social media. “All rescue agencies have provided the necessary assistance and are working tirelessly in the rescue efforts. Our prayers are with the affected families.”
The cause of the collapse remains under investigation, and officials have yet to determine whether structural issues, overcrowding, or other factors contributed.
Jet Set, a popular venue known for hosting dance music events, has been a staple in Santo Domingo’s nightlife for years. The incident has sparked widespread grief, with many in the community sharing messages of solidarity online.
As rescue efforts continue, authorities are urging the public to avoid the area to allow emergency teams to work efficiently. The full scope of the disaster is still emerging, but for now, the focus remains on saving lives amid the rubble.