At least 18 individuals have lost their lives following the collapse of a nightclub roof in the early hours in the capital of the Dominican Republic, according to a report from the Center for Emergency Operations (COE). The President of the Republic, Luis Abinader, has confirmed that the governor of the Montecristi province, Nelsy Cruz, is among the deceased. Cruz was inside the establishment when the tragic incident occurred and was one of several people transported to various hospitals after the collapse.
So far, 46 individuals have been rescued and have received medical attention, as reported by the National Police. The disaster took place at 12:44 AM on Monday at a well-known nightclub that draws significant crowds for its Monday night parties, attended by local celebrities and entertainers. At the time, the popular Dominican merengue singer Rubby Pérez was performing, although his whereabouts remain uncertain. According to initial reports and statements from his daughter, Rubby Pérez was trapped beneath the wreckage while his saxophonist tragically lost his life at the scene.
This sad event highlights how quickly a night of entertainment can turn deadly, shedding light on the importance of building safety standards and emergency preparedness in crowded public spaces.