Santo Domingo Nightclub Roof Collapse Kills 44, Injures Over 160

A tragic roof collapse at the Jet Set nightclub in Santo Domingo during a packed concert has resulted in at least 44 deaths and over 160 injuries, with rescue operations ongoing to find potential survivors trapped in the rubble. The incident occurred just before 1 a.m. local time while merengue singer Rubby Pérez was performing, and video footage showed the roof collapsing amidst falling debris and chaos. Among the deceased is Nelsy Cruz, the governor of Montecristi province, who reportedly contacted authorities for help before succumbing to her injuries. Rescue teams, led by Emergency Operations Center director Juan Manuel Méndez, have managed to pull more than 146 individuals from the debris so far. President Luis Abinader expressed his condolences and assured that all rescue agencies are tirelessly working to assist those affected by the disaster. The cause of the collapse remains under investigation as families anxiously await news of their missing loved ones.