Nightclub Collapse in Santo Domingo Claims 221 Lives, Including Prominent Figures

Santo Domingo during a concert on April 8, 2025, has left 221 people dead and 189 rescued, marking one of the deadliest disasters in recent Dominican history. The incident, which occurred around 1 a.m. during a performance by beloved merengue singer Rubby Pérez, has stunned the nation and drawn international attention due to the prominence of its victims and the scale of the tragedy.

Among the deceased are Pérez himself, Monte Cristi governor Nelsy Cruz, and former Major League Baseball players Octavio Dotel and Tony Blanco. The nightclub, a popular venue for the city’s elite, was hosting a lively Monday night event when the roof of the 50-year-old former movie theater gave way. Survivors, including Pérez’s daughter Zulinka, described chaotic scenes of screams and falling debris. Jenniré Mena, celebrating her 40th birthday, lost a friend, while others waited anxiously for news of loved ones.

Rescue operations, involving 22 public institutions and international teams from Israel and Puerto Rico, continued for 53 hours, concluding on Thursday. President Luis Abinader declared a three-day mourning period, and the site has been handed to the prosecutor’s office for investigation into the cause, which remains unclear. The tragedy has sparked discussions about public safety and building regulations, with the community grappling with profound loss.

Families gathered near the site, and a collective wake was held for Pérez’s fans, reflecting his cultural impact. The mental toll on rescue workers, led by figures like Daniel Heredia, underscores the strain of the response. As the Dominican Republic mourns, the ongoing investigation promises answers, but for now, the focus remains on honoring the victims of this heartbreaking event.