A devastating roof collapse at the Jet Set nightclub in Santo Domingo has resulted in over 100 fatalities, including former MLB players.
On April 8, 2025, tragedy struck the Jet Set nightclub in Santo Domingo when the roof collapsed during a live performance by renowned merengue singer Rubby Pérez. The incident led to the deaths of at least 113 individuals, with more than 255 others injured.
Among the deceased were former Major League Baseball players Octavio Dotel and Tony Blanco. Dotel, aged 51, was a respected journeyman who played for 13 different MLB teams over his 15-year career, including the Detroit Tigers, Houston Astros, and St. Louis Cardinals. Blanco had a notable career in both MLB and Nippon Professional Baseball (NPB).
The collapse also claimed the life of Nelsy Cruz, governor of Monte Cristi province and sister of MLB All-Star Nelson Cruz. Reports indicate that she managed to contact President Luis Abinader from beneath the rubble before succumbing to her injuries.
The cause of the structural failure remains under investigation. The club’s owner, Antonio Espaillat, has expressed deep sorrow and is cooperating fully with authorities.
Rescue operations are ongoing, with emergency services working tirelessly to locate and assist survivors. President Abinader has declared three days of national mourning to honor the victims the collapse.
