SANTO DOMINGO — A tragic roof collapse at the iconic Jet Set nightclub in the Dominican Republic’s capital has claimed the lives of at least 98 people, according to emergency officials. The incident occurred early Tuesday morning during a merengue concert attended by politicians, athletes, and public figures.

More than 24 hours after the collapse, rescue crews continue to dig through rubble, listening closely for signs of life beneath the debris. The one-story building gave way suddenly, trapping dozens inside. Authorities have confirmed that some voices were still being heard late Tuesday, prompting a delicate and urgent search in three critical areas of the structure.

Outside the wreckage, scenes of grief and solidarity unfolded. Relatives gathered, some singing hymns while a man played guitar, hoping for miracles amid despair.

Emergency operations director Juan Manuel Méndez confirmed that rescue efforts remain ongoing and emphasized the need for silence near the site to detect survivors.

The cause of the collapse is still under investigation, and officials have not ruled out structural negligence.

This devastating event has shaken the Caribbean nation and reignited discussions about building safety regulations and event crowd control.