​98 killed and over 200 injured after roof collapses at Dominican Republic nightclub

At least 98 people have been killed and more than 200 injured after the roof of a nightclub in Santa Domingo, Dominican Republic, collapsed.

The incident took place in the early hours of Tuesday, April 8, during a concert at Jet Set, a popular nightclub and live music venue in the capital.

More than 300 people were gathered inside the venue to watch a performance from merengue singer Rubby Pérez, who was among those killed in the incident.

The roof of the venue reportedly caved in at around 1:AM, trapping dozens under the rubble. Emergency responders are still searching for survivors, fearing the death toll could rise further.

According to the National Emergency System, at least 223 people were injured in the incident (via CNN). At least 98 people were reported to have died so far.

“We continue clearing debris and searching for people,” said director of the Emergency Operations Center, Juan Manuel Méndez. “We’re going to search tirelessly for people.”

Amongst those in attendance were politicians and athletes, including Nelsy Cruz, the governor of Monte Cristi province, and two former Major League Baseball players, Octavio Dotel and Tony Blanco, all of whom died in the incident.

In a statement posted to Twitter, the President of the Dominican Republic, Luis Abinader, declared three days of national mourning. “We deeply regret the tragedy that occurred at the Jet Set nightclub,” he said.

“All rescue agencies have provided the necessary assistance and are working tirelessly in the rescue efforts. Our prayers are with the affected families.”

Gemma Ross is Mixmag’s Associate Digital Editor, follow her on Twitter