Disaster in Santo Domingo: 218 Dead in Nightclub Roof Collapse

Rescue Efforts Continue, Authorities Ruling Out Further Survivors

The death toll from a roof collapse at a crowded nightclub in Santo Domingo, the Dominican Republic, has climbed to 218, according to Juan Manuel Mendez, director of the Emergency Operations Center (COE). The devastating incident occurred in the early hours of Tuesday, and rescuers have been working tirelessly to dig out survivors from the rubble of the Jet Set club.

Rescue Operations and Casualties

Rescuers have worked frantically since the collapse to search for survivors, with 189 people being “rescued alive” so far. Mendez reported that 218 people have lost their lives in the disaster, with the preliminary data suggesting that the death toll is unlikely to change.

Number of People Inside the Club

It is estimated that between 500 to 1,000 people were inside the club at the time of the accident, according to local media reports.

Notable Victims

Among the dead are famed merengue singer Rubby Perez, who was performing on stage as the roof collapsed, as well as two former Major League Baseball players and a local politician. The loss of life is a devastating blow to the Dominican people.

Helicopter Images and Rescue Efforts

Helicopter images have shown a gaping hole in the roof of the structure in the nation’s capital, highlighting the severity of the damage. Rescue workers are already concluding their search, with authorities ruling out the possibility of finding any more survivors.

Government Response

The government has expressed its sadness and condolences to the families of the victims. Mendez stated that the rescue workers are “saddened by this tragedy that has so saddened the Dominican people.” The government has announced that it will open an inquiry into the disaster as soon as the rescue operations have been completed.

Conclusion

The roof collapse at the Jet Set club in Santo Domingo has resulted in one of the worst disasters in the Dominican Republic’s history, with 218 people losing their lives. The rescue efforts have been ongoing for several days, with 189 people being rescued alive. The government has pledged to investigate the cause of the collapse and provide support to the affected families.

FAQs

Q: How many people have lost their lives in the disaster?

A: 218 people have lost their lives in the disaster, according to the director of the Emergency Operations Center (COE).

Q: How many people were inside the club at the time of the accident?

A: It is estimated that between 500 to 1,000 people were inside the club at the time of the accident.

Q: Who were some of the notable victims?

A: Among the dead are famed merengue singer Rubby Perez, two former Major League Baseball players, and a local politician.

Q: What is the government’s response to the disaster?

A: The government has expressed its sadness and condolences to the families of the victims and has announced that it will open an inquiry into the disaster as soon as the rescue operations have been completed.