What began as a night of celebration ended in tragedy in Santo Domingo. During a concert by singer Raphy Perez, the roof of the iconic Jet Set nightclub suddenly collapsed. More than 300 people were on the scene. According to CNN and The Guardian, at least 79 people were killed and 223 injured. The Associated Press reports an even higher figure: 98 dead and 160 injured.

Among the victims are well-known figures such as baseball players Octavio Dotel and Tony Blanco, and the governor of Monte Cristi province, Nelsy Cruz.

Perez’s representative said that the show had started around 23:00 and that the collapse occurred about an hour later. The artist was rescued from the rubble and is in stable condition.

Jet Set is one of the most emblematic clubs in the Dominican Republic, known since the 1980s for its tropical music nights. Therefore, this tragedy strikes twice: it happened in a space that is part of the cultural soul of the country.

The causes of the collapse are not yet known. The authorities have initiated an investigation. The club issued a statement assuring its full cooperation. The owner of the establishment, who was out of the country, has since returned.

The government has declared three days of national mourning. The city is silent. And, for now, the music is not playing.