Tragedy struck in the Dominican Republic this week after a popular nightclub saw its roof collapse, leaving at least 124 people dead and scores more injured. Among those hurt in the Jet Set nightclub roof collapse were two former MLB players and at least one U.S. citizen, according to still-developing reports.
NBC News reports that early Tuesday (April 8), the roof of the Jet Set in the Dominican Republic collapsed as attendees were at the venue to see a performance from merengue singer Rubby Pérez. Among the attendees were politicians, former professional athletes, and government officials.
Rubby Pérez was among those who perished as a result of the collapse. Also among those named who perished in the collapse were Octavio Dotel and Tony Enrique Blanco Cabrera, both of whom played in the United States for Major League Baseball. Nelsy Cruz, the governor of the Montecristi province, was also killed in the collapse.
“His energy, positivity, and zest for life were infectious to all who had the pleasure of knowing him,” Dotel’s agent, Dan Horwits, shared in a statement. “We pass along our thoughts and prayers to his entire family as well as everyone affected by the tragedy.”
As rescue efforts continue to persist, the number of those injured remains unknown but could number well over 150 as workers scramble to help survivors left under the roof. It isn’t known yet what caused the collapse, and officials say there is video of the incident that will be included in the investigation.
Current MLB analyst and former player Pedro Martinez says that some of his family and friends were at Jet
Set the morning of the accident and says that he’ll remain “strong” as the situation continues to unfold.
Our warmest thoughts are with the family and friends of the victim of this tragedy.
—
Photo: FRANCESCO SPOTORNO / Getty
