A devastating structural collapse at the Jet Set nightclub in the Dominican Republic has left at least 79 people dead and 155 injured, according to an official update from the government issued at 8.30 pm local time.

Rescue operations remain active as emergency teams continue working round the clock to retrieve victims and transport the injured to health centres.

The incident has prompted a national outpouring of grief and a full-scale government response coordinated by the Emergency Operations Center (COE), with participation from over 22 public institutions.

President Luis Abinader reacts

President Luis Abinader took to social media to express his deep sorrow over the tragedy. In a heartfelt message, he posted on Twitter:

“We deeply regret the tragedy that occurred at the Jet Set nightclub. We have followed the case minute by minute since it happened. All rescue agencies have provided the necessary assistance and are working tirelessly on the rescue efforts. Our prayers are with the affected families.”

The government clarified that, out of respect and legal responsibility, the identification of the deceased will be carried out solely by the National Institute of Forensic Sciences (INACIF). Many of the recovered bodies have not yet been properly identified due to the need for specialised forensic protocols.

Officials have activated psychosocial support services for affected families and are urging the public to refrain from spreading unverified information, which may cause unnecessary distress.