U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio extended his condolences to Dominican President Luis Abinader following the devastating roof collapse at Jet Set nightclub in Santo Domingo that has now claimed 225 lives, including several American citizens.
The disaster, which struck early Tuesday during a packed merengue concert, has shaken the Caribbean nation and sent shockwaves through the international community. Among the deceased are prominent public figures, including former Major League Baseball players Octavio Dotel and Tony Enrique Blanco Cabrera, and Nelsy Cruz, sister of seven-time MLB All-Star Nelson Cruz and the governor of Montecristi province. Merengue icon Rubby Pérez was performing when the collapse occurred and was also among the victims.
In a statement released by State Department spokesperson Tammy Bruce, Secretary Rubio conveyed his “deepest condolences” on behalf of the American people and praised the efforts of Dominican emergency personnel who responded swiftly to the tragedy. He also acknowledged critical support from the Governor of Puerto Rico, Jenniffer González Colón, and the Puerto Rico Fire Department.
“Our hearts go out to their families and to our Dominican friends who lost loved ones,” said Rubio. He emphasized the United States’ solidarity with the Dominican Republic and reiterated the strong bond between the two nations.
Officials said Saturday that four people pulled from the rubble had died overnight, bringing the total number of confirmed deaths to 225. Another 189 people were rescued alive, with more than 200 injured. Fifteen remain hospitalized, including five in critical condition.
The collapse occurred during a high-profile event attended by politicians, athletes, and celebrities. Pérez had just started his performance when dust began to fall from the ceiling—moments later, the entire roof gave way.
The process of identifying victims was hampered by the need for biometric data, Health Minister Victor Attalah said. By Saturday, all 225 victims had been identified and returned to their families.
President Abinader and First Lady Raquel Arbaje attended Pérez’s funeral on Thursday at the National Theater, standing in solidarity with grieving relatives and an anguished nation.
Secretary Rubio and President Abinader reaffirmed their commitment to the enduring U.S.-Dominican Republic relationship during their call, a partnership now reinforced by shared mourning and mutual support in the wake of a national tragedy.
