SANTO DOMINGO, DR — What began as a jubilant celebration of Dominican merengue ended in heartbreak when the roof of the iconic Jet Set Nightclub collapsed during a live performance by legendary artist Rubby Pérez in the early hours of Sunday, March 30, 2025. The catastrophic incident claimed multiple lives, left dozens injured, and sent shockwaves throughout the Dominican Republic and the global music community.
The event, which was meant to honor the rich legacy of Dominican music, turned into one of the most devastating nights in the country’s recent memory.
A Celebration Turns Into Catastrophe
Jet Set Nightclub, a cultural cornerstone in Santo Domingo, was packed with merengue fans of all generations, united by their love for the genre and its enduring icon, Rubby Pérez. The night was electric—until it turned deadly.
Midway through Pérez’s performance, as he sang one of his signature hits, the venue’s ceiling collapsed without warning. Debris rained down on the packed crowd, crushing parts of the dance floor and stage in seconds. The chaos that followed was described by survivors as apocalyptic—screams, panic, and desperate attempts to escape the wreckage.
The venue, once a beacon for nightlife and music lovers, was reduced to rubble in a matter of moments.
Rubby Pérez Among the Injured
The beloved merengue singer, Rubby Pérez, 60, was caught in the collapse and remained trapped under the debris until emergency responders were able to extract him. He was rushed to a local hospital in critical condition.
Pérez’s survival has offered a sliver of hope amid overwhelming grief. Known for hits like “La Culebra” and “Eso Es Lo Que Hay,” Pérez has long been a national treasure. Fans across the Dominican Republic and abroad continue to pray for his recovery as he remains under close medical supervision.
Emergency Response and Casualties
First responders arrived swiftly to the scene and worked through the night to rescue survivors. At least [insert confirmed number] individuals lost their lives, including both patrons and staff members of the nightclub. Dozens of others suffered injuries ranging from minor to life-threatening.
Hospitals in the Santo Domingo area were inundated with casualties, prompting an emergency call for additional medical personnel and resources.
Eyewitness Accounts
“It was one of the best nights we’ve had in years. Everyone was dancing, singing—then suddenly, everything just collapsed,” said one survivor. “There was no warning. Just a loud crack, and the ceiling came down.”
Another concertgoer described the aftermath: “I saw people pinned under concrete. I still hear the screams. It was pure chaos.”
Nation Mourns; Leaders Respond
In a national address, President [Insert Name] expressed deep sorrow over the tragedy, pledging support for victims and their families. “This is not just a tragedy for those directly impacted. This is a wound to the heart of our nation,” he stated.
The Minister of Culture [Insert Name] also commented: “We mourn the loss of life and stand with the merengue community. These were our people—our culture, our heart.”
Public vigils and memorials are being organized across the country in honor of those lost.
An Industry in Mourning
The merengue and broader Dominican music communities have been left shaken. Tributes to the victims and to Rubby Pérez flooded social media, with fellow musicians, fans, and cultural institutions expressing their grief and outrage.
“This was more than a concert. It was a celebration of who we are as Dominicans,” said a prominent local artist. “To have it end like this is unbearable.”
Ongoing Investigation and Calls for Accountability
Authorities have launched a full investigation into the cause of the collapse. Preliminary reports suggest possible structural failures, with some speculation pointing to aging infrastructure or overcapacity. However, no official conclusion has been released.
There is now growing public pressure for stronger safety regulations and stricter inspections of public venues—particularly those hosting large crowds.
“This should never have happened,” said a survivor. “We need answers, and we need accountability.”
Moving Forward Together
As the Dominican Republic processes this tragedy, efforts are underway to support victims and their families. Benefit concerts, community fundraisers, and public ceremonies are being planned to help those affected and to commemorate the lives lost.
Though scarred, the country remains united in grief and resilience. The music will continue—not in celebration just yet, but in remembrance.
For now, the beat is quieter. But the spirit of Dominican music and the memories of those who perished at Jet Set Nightclub will endure.
