Early in the morning on Tuesday April 9th the Jet Set club in the Dominican Republic had its roof collapse killing at least 148 people. Among these people was a famous Dominican singer named Ruby Pérez, who was singing during the incident, and 2 former baseball players named Octavio Dotel and Tony Blanco. Early Wednesday morning officials said that 155 people had been taken to the hospital.

The reason for collapse at the nightclub remains unclear. Juan Manuel Méndez, who is the director of the emergency operations center, said during a press conference on Wednesday that the Dominican Navy and fire services are helping with rescue efforts which had reached the second day

Dotel’s agent, Dan Horwits, said in a statement“His energy, positivity and zest for life were infectious to all who had the pleasure of knowing him” ( Smith Laughlin, Burk, April 9)

Méndez also confirmed the body of Pérez was found during the conference and that while there was video footage of the event the timeline is still unclear.

Marco Rubio, the Secretary of State, Made a post on X Wednesday saying that at least one U.S. citizen was killed at the nightclub adding “ Our hearts go out to the families and loved ones affected by this devastating event. The U.S. stands ready to support our Dominican allies amid this difficult time” (Smith, Laughlin, Burk April 9).