Famous nightclub roof collapse in Dominica, at least 79 dead

Punta Cana [Dominican Republic], April 9: Authorities in the Dominican Republic announced that the collapse of the roof of the Jet Set nightclub in the early hours of April 8 left at least 79 people dead and 160 injured.The Guardian reported on April 8 that rescuers were trying to find people trapped in the rubble, after the Jet Set nightclub in the Dominican Republic's capital Santo Domingo collapsed while holding a music night.The manager of singer Rubby Perez, who performed at the concert and was injured after the accident, said the show began at midnight and the tragedy occurred about an hour later, claiming the lives of dozens of people, including the troupe's saxophonist.The director of the Dominican Republic's Emergency Coordination Center, Manuel Mendez, said rescue operations would continue until all the victims were pulled out of the rubble.Among those killed was the Governor of Montecristi Province Nelsy Cruz. According to first lady Raquel Arbaje, Cruz called Dominican President Luis Abinader in the early hours of April 8, saying she was trapped when the roof collapsed. Officials confirmed Cruz died at the hospital. "This is too big a tragedy," Arbaje told reporters.It is not clear what caused the roof to collapse. The management of the Jet Set nightclub said it would coordinate with the authorities to investigate the incident. Jet Set is a popular venue in this Caribbean country, opened in 1973, often hosting traditional parties and inviting many local and international artists to perform.Writing on social media X, President Abinader offered his condolences to the victims of the tragedy. He also went to the scene and comforted people outside who were looking for friends and relatives who were trapped.Source: Thanh Nien Newspaper