A devastating nightclub roof collapse in Santo Domingo has left the Dominican Republic reeling, as authorities confirmed the arrest of Jet Set nightclub owner Antonio Espaillat and his sister Maribel Espaillat in connection with the deaths of 236 people. The pair were detained just weeks after the 8 April disaster rocked the nation and sent shockwaves across the globe.
The iconic Jet Set nightclub was hosting a packed Monday night event featuring local and international guests, including musicians, retired Major League Baseball stars, and political figures, when tragedy struck. The roof caved in just after midnight, killing 236 individuals and injuring more than 180 others.
Among the victims were Dominican musical legend Rubby Pérez, who was performing at the time, and Nelsy Cruz, governor of Montecristi province and sister to baseball star Nelson Cruz. Also lost in the disaster were former MLB pitcher Octavio Dotel—who was pulled from the debris but later died in hospital—and Dominican baseball figure Tony Enrique Blanco Cabrera.
Charges Still Pending as Legal Clock Ticks
The Dominican Republic’s Attorney General’s Office announced on Thursday that while the Espaillats have been arrested, formal charges have yet to be filed. Prosecutors have 48 hours to present their case to a judge, per Dominican law.
In a statement, the Attorney General’s Office cited “immense irresponsibility and negligence” on the part of both Antonio and Maribel Espaillat, accusing them of failing to act when they allegedly had reason to believe the roof was structurally unsound. Authorities further allege that the siblings attempted to intimidate or influence employees who may serve as witnesses.
Their lawyer could not be reached for immediate comment. The arrests followed several hours of interrogation.
Victims Spanned Celebrities, Officials, and Everyday Citizens
The deadly collapse claimed a diverse range of lives, including a retired United Nations official, a New York-based fashion designer Martín Polanco, and a Dominican Army captain who leaves behind four daughters. The tragedy also claimed three Grupo Popular employees, including the president of AFP Popular Bank and his wife.
Jet Set had operated for nearly 50 years and was considered a staple of Dominican nightlife. Its legendary Monday merengue nights attracted everyone from global celebrities to local dignitaries, making its sudden downfall even more poignant.
Rescue Efforts and Ongoing Investigation
Emergency crews worked non-stop for 53 hours to rescue 189 survivors, navigating through the rubble in a race against time. A government-appointed committee—including international structural experts—is still conducting a formal investigation into the cause of the collapse. Early speculation points to structural fatigue and possible safety code violations.
While the shock is still fresh, the country—and much of the world—now waits for accountability and answers. The Espaillats’ arrest may be the first step in a long road toward justice for the hundreds of families affected.
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Final Note:
As authorities continue their investigation and the global community watches, the tragedy at Jet Set nightclub stands as a stark reminder of the importance of safety regulations, accountability, and the fragile nature of life—even on a dancefloor meant to celebrate it.
