Tragedy Strikes in Dominican Republic: Nightclub Roof Collapse Kills and Injures Dozens – Family of Former MLB Star Octavio Dotel Confirms Devastating News

Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic – April 9, 2025

In a heartbreaking turn of events, a popular nightclub in Santo Domingo became the scene of tragedy late Tuesday night after the building’s roof suddenly collapsed during a packed event. Local authorities have confirmed multiple fatalities and dozens of injuries, marking one of the worst nightclub disasters in the nation’s recent history.

The incident occurred just after 11:30 p.m. at “Club Eclipse,” a well-known venue located in the heart of the capital city. Witnesses describe a chaotic scene as the roof caved in without warning, trapping many partygoers beneath the debris. Emergency services responded quickly, but despite their efforts, several lives were lost, and many remain hospitalized with critical injuries.

Among those affected by the collapse was the family of former Major League Baseball pitcher Octavio Dotel. A spokesperson for the Dotel family confirmed that one of his close relatives was killed in the collapse, and others are being treated for serious injuries. The identity of the deceased has not been publicly disclosed at this time out of respect for the family’s privacy.

“This is an unimaginable tragedy,” the family said in a brief statement. “We are heartbroken and ask for privacy as we navigate this incredibly difficult time.”

Octavio Dotel, a Dominican native, is widely respected in both the U.S. and Dominican Republic for his successful MLB career, which spanned over a decade and included stints with the Houston Astros, New York Yankees, St. Louis Cardinals, and other teams. Since retiring, he has remained an active figure in Dominican baseball and frequently gives back to his local community through charitable efforts.

The cause of the collapse is still under investigation. Initial reports suggest structural weaknesses in the nightclub’s roof, possibly worsened by recent heavy rains in the area. Officials are now examining the club’s safety compliance records, and there is growing public outrage over how such a popular establishment could have passed safety inspections if the roof was unstable.

“We will hold those responsible accountable,” said Mayor Carolina Mejía in a press conference early Wednesday morning. “Our focus now is on rescue operations and supporting the victims and their families.”

As of this writing, rescue workers are still combing through the wreckage in hopes of finding survivors. The Health Ministry has urged local residents to donate blood, and crisis counselors have been dispatched to assist traumatized witnesses and victims’ families.

Messages of support and condolences have poured in from across the Dominican Republic and beyond, with many MLB players and fans expressing their sorrow and solidarity with Dotel and his family.

This tragedy has once again highlighted the urgent need for stricter building safety regulations and enforcement in entertainment venues across the Caribbean. The coming days will likely bring both mourning and demand for accountability.

The nation grieves today—not just for those lost in the collapse, but for the many lives shattered in an instant.