Hope Dims for Survivors as Rescue Efforts Continue After Dominican Club Roof Collapse

SANTO DOMINGO, Dominican Republic (AP) — Rescue teams continue to sift through the rubble of the famed Jet Set nightclub, where a tragic roof collapse occurred earlier this week, claiming at least 184 lives. As time passes, hopes of finding survivors are dwindling.

Families in Santo Domingo, still looking for missing loved ones, are feeling the sting of frustration. Many have visited local hospitals and the forensic institute, searching for answers but coming up short. Doctors report that some of the 24 patients still hospitalized remain in critical condition, with health officials warning that time is running out. “If the trauma is too severe, we need to act fast,” said Health Minister Dr. Víctor Atallah.

Eyewitnesses describe a dramatic scene. Just moments before the disaster struck, dust began to fall from the ceiling at the nightclub during a merengue concert, which was packed with musicians, athletes, and government officials. The roof gave way, sending debris crashing down and injuring over 200 attendees.

Among the casualties are prominent figures such as merengue artist Rubby Pérez and former MLB players Octavio Dotel and Tony Enrique Blanco Cabrera. The governor of Montecristi, Nelsy Cruz, also perished, adding to the tragedy that has touched many prominent families.

Rescue operations have been swift. The country’s 911 system received more than 100 emergency calls, with some from people trapped beneath the debris. Emergency responders mobilized immediately, arriving within 90 seconds of the first calls. In total, 145 survivors were rescued from the wreckage thanks to the efforts of soldiers, firefighters, and paramedics working tirelessly.

As the recovery shifts focus to locating bodies, the government has announced plans for a full investigation into the incident. Experts have emphasized the importance of building safety regulations to prevent such calamities in the future. According to a recent study, about 60% of construction sites in the Caribbean have not undergone safety inspections in the last five years, highlighting a concerning trend that could put lives at risk.

The Jet Set nightclub’s ownership has stated their willingness to cooperate with the investigation, but questions remain about the club’s maintenance history and safety compliance. The community is left grappling with the heartbreak caused by this disaster, reminding us of the fragility of life and the need for proper safeguards in public spaces.

As more details emerge and the recovery continues, society watches closely, hoping for brighter days ahead but also for answers that might prevent future tragedies.

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Dominican Republic, Juan Manuel Mndez, Accidents, General news, AP Top News, Forensics, Vctor Atallah, Octavio Dotel, Martn Polanco, World news, Luis Sols, Politics, Health