Death Toll From Jet Set Nightclub Tragedy in the Dominican Republic Continues to Climb
SANTO DOMINGO, Dominican Republic – The director of the Emergency Operations Center (COE), Juan Méndez, says over 200 bodies have been recovered following the catastrophic roof collapse at the Jet Set nightclub in Santo Domingo, earlier this week.
The death toll, certified by the National Institute of Forensic Sciences (INACIF), has prompted a state of national mourning as the country reels from the tragedy.
Speaking during a press conference on Wednesday, Méndez praised the efforts of rescue teams from various institutions, including the Armed Forces, Civil Defense, Dominican Red Cross, Fire Department, and National Force.
He also emphasized the government’s full commitment to supporting victims’ families, assuring that no one will be abandoned in this time of grief.
“The people trapped there could be any one of us—our children, our siblings,” he said.
Addressing reports of possible survivors found on Wednesday, Méndez clarified that these were unfortunate misunderstandings caused by the emotional reactions of relatives identifying loved ones. While he expressed hope for such miracles, he reiterated that the operation continues with the highest dedication.
“This tragedy fills us with pain, but we will not rest until every possible life is accounted for.”
Meanwhile, in neighboring Haiti, the government and the Presidential Transitional Council (CPT) extended their condolences to the Dominican Republic.
Prime Minister Alix Didier Fils-Aimé, speaking on behalf of the Haitian people, expressed deep sorrow over the tragedy, describing it as a “cruel loss” for their Dominican neighbors.
The government emphasized the shared grief between the two nations, stating, “Today, Haiti’s tears mingle with those of its Dominican sister,” and vowed to support the Dominican Republic in this time of mourning.
The CPT echoed these sentiments, offering heartfelt condolences to the families of the victims and reaffirming its commitment to regional solidarity.
