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Dominican Republic: Death toll from nightclub roof collapse rises to 221

Friday 11 April 2025 - 10:05

The search for victims of a devastating nightclub collapse in the Dominican Republic ended on Thursday with a death toll of 221. Among the victims was merengue singer Rubby Pérez, who was performing when the roof caved in at the Jet Set club. Pérez, known for hits like "Volveré," was mourned by hundreds of people, including Dominican President Luis Abinader and singer Juan Luis Guerra. Following the ceremony, mourners released white balloons and sang Pérez’s song in a heartfelt tribute.

Meanwhile, authorities are still investigating the cause of the collapse, which remains unclear. It’s unknown when the building was last inspected, but officials have promised a thorough investigation. While the search for bodies ended, more than 200 were injured, and 23 are still hospitalized. The trauma faced by many survivors is severe, with some suffering from broken bones and skull injuries.

The tragedy has left families in distress, with many waiting for news of their loved ones. Hundreds of people gathered at hospitals and forensic institutes, enduring long waits and overwhelming conditions.

Among the identified victims are former MLB players Octavio Dotel and Tony Enrique Blanco Cabrera, as well as Nelsy Cruz, a governor’s brother. Hundreds of mourners attended Dotel’s wake, including Hall of Famer David Ortiz. Many others, such as retired UN official Luis Solís and saxophonist Martín Polanco, were also among those killed in the collapse.

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