225 People Dead After Nightclub Roof Collapses – Watch

The Dominican Republic is in mourning after a devastating nightclub collapse in Santo Domingo claimed the life of beloved merengue icon Rubby Pérez. Officials announced on Saturday (April 12) that four more people who were hospitalized after the roof collapsed at Jet Set nightclub have died, bringing the total death toll to 225.

Chaos at Jet Set

The tragedy unfolded during a concert at the popular Jet Set venue on Tuesday (April 8). Pérez had just started performing when things took a terrifying turn. Nearly an hour into his set, dust began falling from the ceiling. Seconds later, the roof gave way, trapping dozens of people inside.

Initially, there was hope. Relatives said Pérez, known for the hit “Volveré,” had been pulled out alive. But by Wednesday (April 9), officials confirmed the heartbreaking news—his body had been found in the rubble.

Other victims include former MLB players Octavio Dotel and Tony Enrique Blanco Cabrera, and Nelsy Cruz, the governor of Montecristi and brother of seven-time MLB All-Star Nelson Cruz.

Authorities say it’s still too early to say what caused the collapse.

A Night to Remember

Alba Joselin Holguín, who attended the show with her husband, told Billboard the crowd was full of joy before the disaster. “The truth is that night Rubby had the crowd happy, dancing, singing,” she recalled. “Everyone was enjoying the moment, taking selfies. The crowd was very happy.”

A Voice That Will Live On

Rubby Pérez, once an aspiring baseball player, turned to music after a car accident left his leg permanently injured. In 1980, he joined Wilfrido Vargas’ orchestra and later launched a solo career in 1987. His stunning vocal range earned him the nickname la voz más alta del merengue—the highest voice in merengue.

“His voice, powerful and full of life will continue to resonate in every corner of our Dominican Republic and beyond,” said Vargas. “Rubby was not just a singer; he was a symbol of courage, passion and artistic excellence.” His legacy will live on in the hearts of fans everywhere.