Introduction to the Tragedy
The South Florida community is standing in solidarity with the Dominican Republic as search efforts continue after a deadly roof collapse. At least 184 people have died and dozens were injured as of Wednesday night, Dominican officials said.
The Incident
The legendary Jet Set club in Santo Domingo was packed with musicians, professional athletes, and government officials when dust began falling from the ceiling and into people’s drinks early Tuesday. Minutes later, the entire roof collapsed. Concrete slabs killed some instantly and trapped dozens of others on a dance floor where hundreds had been dancing to a lively merengue concert. In the minutes that followed, the country’s 911 system received more than 100 calls, many from people buried under rubble.
Community in Mourning
Miami’s Dominican community is in mourning after more than 120 people were killed when a nightclub roof collapsed in Santo Domingo, including beloved public figures. NBC6’s Laura Rodriguez reports. The victims include merengue icon Rubby Pérez, who had been singing to the crowd before disaster struck. His body was found early Wednesday, said emergency operations director Juan Manuel Méndez.
Reaction from the Community
"He was a great person, believe me… a real friendly, nice guy," said Luis de la Cruz, the owner of Club Tipico in Miami. De la Cruz said the singer performed at his venue in the past and would stop by any time he was in town. At Miami’s Little Santo Domingo neighborhood, most people were glued to the TV or their phones, waiting to hear updates on the search efforts. The community had a vigil at Juan Pablo Duarte Park on Wednesday night.
Search Efforts and Aftermath
The government announced Wednesday evening that it was suspending the search for survivors and moving into the recovery phase after 145 people were rescued from the wreckage of the nightclub. So far, only a few dozen people have been identified in one of the worst disasters to hit the Dominican Republic.
Conclusion
The roof collapse at the Jet Set club in Santo Domingo has left the Dominican community in Miami and around the world in shock and mourning. As the search efforts come to an end and the recovery phase begins, the community will continue to come together to support those affected by the tragedy.
FAQs
- Q: What was the cause of the roof collapse at the Jet Set club in Santo Domingo?
A: The cause of the roof collapse is currently under investigation. - Q: How many people were killed in the roof collapse?
A: At least 184 people have died as a result of the roof collapse. - Q: What is the current status of the search efforts?
A: The search for survivors has been suspended, and the recovery phase has begun. - Q: How can I support the victims and their families?
A: You can support the victims and their families by donating to reputable charities and organizations providing aid to those affected by the tragedy.
