A tragic roof collapse at Jet Set nightclub in Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic, claimed the lives of over 100 individuals, including two former Major League Baseball players.

According to Fox News, this catastrophic event transpired early on Tuesday, April 8, 2025, amid a live performance, leading to immense grief within the baseball community and beyond.

The calamity ensued as attendees enjoyed a performance by singer Rubby Pérez. Without warning, the structure above gave way, sending debris cascading onto the crowd below. This led to one of the deadliest nightclub disasters in recent memory, with at least 113 fatalities and over 250 injuries reported.

Among those lost in the devastation were ex-MLB players Octavio Dotel and Tony Blanco. Dotel, known for his lengthy and diverse baseball career, was rescued from the rubble and rushed to a hospital but sadly succumbed to his injuries.

Rescue Efforts and Immediate Responses

The Dominican National Police confirmed that efforts to save Dotel were in vain as he passed away en route to the hospital. On-site, first responders worked tirelessly to locate and assist survivors, a harrowing task given the scale of the collapse and the chaos that ensued.

Nelsy Cruz, a local governor and the sister of MLB player Nelson Cruz, was also among the notable victims. Trapped under debris, she managed to communicate her predicament before ultimately succumbing to her injuries after being transported to a medical facility.

As the news of the tragedy spread, condolences and statements of support flooded in from around the world. MLB Commissioner Rob Manfred expressed the league's profound sadness and solidarity with the victims and their families.

Impacts on the Baseball Community

Rob Manfred highlighted the deep ties between the Dominican community and the sport of baseball. He noted, "The connection between baseball and the Dominican Republic runs deep, and we are thinking of all the Dominican players and fans across the game today."

Dotel, renowned for his record of playing for 13 different MLB teams and his role in the 2011 World Series-winning St. Louis Cardinals, left a significant mark on the sport. His agent, Dan Horwits, remembered him as "one of a kind" with an "energy, positivity and zest for life" that were "infectious."

Horwits added, "The BHSC Family is saddened to learn of the tragic passing of Octavio Dotel. OD was one of the true joys to be around both on and off the field."

Community Mourning and Memorial Plans

Back at the scene, the recovery and investigation into the cause of the collapse are ongoing. Police and emergency crews continue their diligent work amidst the rubble, seeking answers and providing aid to those affected.

First Lady of the Dominican Republic, Raquel Abraje, detailed the harrowing moments leading up to the governor's death. She relayed a distress call from Nelsy Cruz, who informed her of being trapped beneath the collapsed structure before her tragic passing.

In the wake of the disaster, the community and the world of baseball are coming together to mourn and remember the lives lost. Efforts are underway to provide assistance and support to the injured and the families of the deceased, ensuring that the victims and their legacies are honored and never forgotten.