Celebrities Who Died in Dominican Republic Nightclub Collapse: Tony Blanco & More

Nightclub Tragedy in Dominican Republic Claims Multiple Lives

A devastating incident at a nightclub in the Dominican Republic resulted in numerous fatalities and injuries as the roof of the venue caved in. The catastrophic collapse occurred at the Jet Set Club in Santo Domingo on April 8, 2025, during an evening event. Reports indicate that over 100 individuals perished, possibly including well-known figures. Among those present on the fateful night were Major League Baseball personalities, a political figure, and other recognizable names, with authorities working to identify the deceased.

Government Response to Jet Set Club Collapse

Dominican Republic President Luis Abinader conveyed his condolences via social media, stating, “We are deeply saddened by the unfortunate event that transpired at the Jet Set nightclub. We have been closely monitoring the situation from its onset. All emergency services have been deployed and are diligently engaged in rescue operations. Our thoughts are with the families impacted by this tragedy.”

Remembering Victims of the Nightclub Disaster

This article serves to commemorate the celebrities and notable individuals who tragically lost their lives in the nightclub roof collapse.

Details of the Dominican Republic Nightclub Roof Collapse

Earlier on April 8, 2025, spectators gathered to watch a performance by singer Rubby Pérez at the Jet Set Club when the ceiling abruptly began to give way. Footage captured by attendees reveals that moments before the major collapse, someone recording Pérez’s performance commented, “Something fell from the ceiling,” according to reports from BBC News. Pérez was seen looking upwards in response to the comment, and approximately 30 seconds later, the recording ceased as the roof structure failed.

Investigation into Jet Set Club Roof Collapse Underway

Authorities have not yet determined the precise cause for the nightclub’s roof failing. Emergency responders persisted in their search through the wreckage on April 9, 2025, in an effort to identify all victims of the collapse.

At least 44 people died and more than 100 were being treated for injuries after a roof collapsed at a nightclub in the capital of the Dominican Republic early Tuesday, authorities said.

Crews were searching for potential survivors in the rubble and teams were still working to… pic.twitter.com/NEReq11FcF

— CBS News (@CBSNews) April 8, 2025

Identified Victims of the Dominican Republic Nightclub Collapse

Among those who perished in the Dominican Republic nightclub incident are several prominent individuals, including Major League Baseball players and a politician. The following individuals have been confirmed as victims:

Octavio Dotel

Former MLB World Series champion and pitcher Octavio Dotel was among those who tragically died, as confirmed by multiple news sources. Dotel’s agent, Dan Horwits, issued a statement through Fox News regarding the esteemed athlete’s passing.

“The BHSC [Beverly Hills Sports Council] Family is deeply saddened by the tragic loss of Octavio Dotel,” the statement conveyed. “OD was truly unique. He brought immense joy both on and off the baseball field. His vibrant energy, optimism, and enthusiasm for life were contagious to everyone fortunate enough to know him. Throughout his Major League career, he achieved a record for playing with the most teams in the MLB (13). He took genuine pride in this distinction and often joked about it. It was an honor to represent OD. We extend our deepest condolences and prayers to his family and all those affected by this tragedy.”

Tony Blanco

Tony Blanco, formerly of the Washington Nationals and a minor league player, has also been confirmed as a victim of the nightclub collapse. MLB Commissioner Rob Manfred expressed the league’s profound sorrow over the deaths of both Dotel and Blanco in an official statement.

“The bond between baseball and the Dominican Republic is profound, and our thoughts are with all Dominican players and baseball enthusiasts during this difficult time,” Manfred stated, as reported by various outlets.

Nelsy Cruz

Nelsy Cruz, serving as the governor of the northwestern province of Montecristi and sister to MLB player Nelson Cruz, also died in the incident. First Lady Raquel Abraje revealed that Nelsy Cruz contacted Dominican Republic President Luis Abinader at 12:49 a.m. local time, reporting that she was trapped under the collapsed roof.

Rubby Pérez

Merengue singer Rubby Pérez has been confirmed among the fatalities of the nightclub roof collapse. He was 69 years old. A statement posted on Pérez’s Instagram account conveyed gratitude from his team to fans.

“We extend our sincere gratitude for the outpouring of love, support, and solidarity received during this challenging time for his family, friends, and fans,” the statement read, translated from Spanish. “His musical and personal legacy will forever remain in our hearts. May he rest in peace.”