Jet Set Owner Arrested in Dominican Republic Following Catastrophic Roof Collapse

Tragedy at Jet Set Nightclub

On April 8, 2025, during a packed 50th-anniversary merengue performance by beloved singer Rubby Pérez, the roof of Santo Domingo’s iconic Jet Set nightclub catastrophically collapsed.

The disaster claimed **236 lives** and injured over **180 people**, making it one of the Dominican Republic’s deadliest non-natural tragedies .

 Arrests & Legal Fallout

* **June 12**: Owners **Antonio** and **Maribel Espaillat**, siblings who inherited the club, were arrested and face charges including involuntary homicide. Prosecutors accuse them of “gross negligence,” failing to repair long-known structural problems despite repeated warnings and water leaks from rooftop air conditioning units .
* A government report highlighted unauthorized structural modifications—like removing a key support column—permitting the collapse .
* Authorities claim the siblings also attempted to intimidate witnesses, and prosecutors now have 48 hours to file formal charges .

Investigative Findings

Multiple sources agree:

* Workers warned Antonio one day before the collapse about crumbling ceiling panels. Maribel allegedly refused to postpone the event .
* No official permits were issued for structural changes, and safety regulations were flagrantly ignored .

Victims & National Impact

High-profile victims included:

* Merengue icon **Rubby Pérez**, performing on stage when the collapse occurred .
* Former MLB stars **Octavio Dotel** and **Tony Blanco**, plus **Governor Nelsy Cruz**—sister of baseball star Nelson Cruz .

The tragedy struck a chord nationwide—President Abinader extended mourning periods, launched relief efforts, and pledged thorough investigations.

* The **Attorney General** continues probing, with civil lawsuits (over 60) filed by victims’ families against the Espaillats, the city, and state agencies .
* Asset freezes and criminal measures are underway; Maribel has been moved to a medical facility due to health concerns, while civil proceedings press on .

Final Thoughts

The Jet Set collapse represents a stark breakdown in building safety and corporate responsibility. The arrests of Antonio and Maribel Espaillat signal a pivotal shift—from mourning to accountability. As trials and investigations unfold, justice for the victims remains the collective hope.