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New Jersey Woman Among Fatalities in Dominican Republic Nightclub Roof Collapse
A devastating nightclub roof collapse in the Dominican Republic has claimed the life of a New Jersey woman celebrating her 24th birthday. Jennifer Contreras, from Passaic, is among the confirmed fatalities of the tragic incident at the Jet Set nightclub in Santo Domingo, which resulted in multiple deaths.
Victim Identified as Jennifer Contreras
The body of Jennifer Contreras was recovered from the wreckage of the Jet Set nightclub in Santo Domingo on Wednesday evening, as confirmed by her sister, Luz Contreras, to NJ.com. The Passaic resident was in the Dominican Republic to pursue certification in eyebrow micropigmentation, intending to offer the service at her New Jersey-based nail salon, LuziBeauty.
Tragedy struck on April 8 when Contreras, accompanied by friends, visited the Jet Set nightclub to commemorate her approaching birthday.
Family Mourns Loss
Luz Contreras shared that her younger sister had invited her on the trip to the island for the celebration, but work commitments prevented her from joining.
“Everyone who knew us understood that she was my closest companion, my partner in everything; we were inseparable,” Luz expressed to the news outlet.
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“She wanted me to travel with her on this excursion, but I was unable to reschedule my appointments.”
Aspiring Beauty Entrepreneur
According to a crowdfunding page established by Contreras’s family, she harbored aspirations of launching her own beauty business after completing her eyebrow micropigmentation certification.
Anthony Contreras, her brother, described Jennifer as “the most compassionate, affectionate, and gentle person. She was an extraordinary daughter, sister, friend, cousin, and so much more.”
Seeking Assistance to Repatriate Remains
The family has initiated fundraising efforts to facilitate the return of Jennifer’s body to the United States for funeral services.
“The financial burden associated with the logistics of transporting Jennifer’s remains from the Dominican Republic, along with mortuary services in both countries, and funeral arrangements in the United States, has placed significant strain on our family during this incredibly difficult period,” Anthony Contreras explained. “We kindly request prayers and positive thoughts for my sister and our family during this time.”
Second New Jersey Resident Perished in Collapse
Antonia Ignacio Douglas, another individual from New Jersey, also perished in the deadly nightclub collapse. Perth Amboy Mayor Helmin Caba confirmed the news on Facebook on Friday.
“It is with deep sadness that we have received confirmation that one of our own residents, Antonia Ignacio Douglas, affectionately known as Violeta, was among those who tragically lost their lives in the Dominican Republic nightclub incident.”
“To Violeta’s family, I extend—not only as your mayor but as your neighbor—my sincerest and most personal condolences. Our city shares in your grief. We acknowledge the immensity of your loss, and we are committed to supporting you as you navigate this profound tragedy,” Mayor Caba conveyed.
Remembering Antonia Ignacio Douglas
Ignacio Douglas was vacationing in the Dominican Republic when the nightclub roof collapsed, according to a crowdfunding page initiated by her mother, Jariel Ignacio.
“Violeta was filled with joy, affection, and light, truly the most exceptional mother anyone could ask for,” her mother wrote. “She was also a cherished friend, aunt, grandmother, and sister who touched the lives of everyone fortunate enough to know her.”
Vigil Held for Victims
A vigil to honor the memories of both Jennifer Contreras and Antonia Ignacio Douglas took place at a restaurant in Jersey City on Sunday evening, as reported by News 12 New Jersey.
Nightclub Tragedy Claimed Multiple Lives
The catastrophe at the Jet Set nightclub resulted in a significant number of fatalities, including former major league baseball figures Tony Blanco and Octavio Dotel.
Dotel, a former prospect for the Mets, achieved a World Series title with the St. Louis Cardinals in 2011.
Nelsy Cruz, the governor of Montecristi province and sister of former major league slugger Nelson Cruz, was also among the deceased.
Elivira Malkic, a New York City-based art dealer, and her husband, Hakim Boubazine, also tragically died when the nightclub’s ceiling collapsed during a performance by renowned merengue artist Rubby Perez.
Pérez himself was also among the victims of the incident.
Investigation Underway
An investigation into the cause of the Jet Set nightclub roof collapse is currently in progress. The owner, Antonio Espaillat, has returned to Santo Domingo to “fully cooperate with authorities” in the examination of the disaster.