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A devastating tragedy has struck the Dominican Republic as the death toll climbs to 221 after the roof of a popular nightclub collapsed in the early hours of Tuesday, April 8. The nation mourns as rescue teams work tirelessly to search for survivors amidst the rubble.
The nightclub, a well-known hotspot in the capital city, was packed with young people enjoying a night out when disaster struck. Witnesses describe a sudden cracking sound before the entire roof gave way, trapping hundreds beneath debris.
“It was sheer chaos,” said Carlos Martinez, a survivor who managed to escape with minor injuries. “One moment we were dancing, and the next, everything came crashing down. We tried to help as many as we could.”
Emergency services quickly responded, and over 155 injured individuals have been transported to nearby hospitals. Medical personnel are overwhelmed as they treat injuries ranging from fractures to severe trauma.
Authorities are investigating the cause of the collapse. Initial reports suggest structural weaknesses in the building may have been exacerbated by recent heavy rains. The nightclub had been cited in the past for safety violations, raising questions about enforcement of building codes.
President Luis Abinader has declared a national period of mourning. “Our nation grieves for the lives lost in this horrific incident,” he stated. “We will not rest until we understand how this happened and ensure it never occurs again.”
Vigils are being held across the country as families await news of missing loved ones. Social media has been flooded with messages of support and solidarity, with the hashtag #PrayForDominicanRepublic trending globally.
The calamity marks one of the deadliest disasters in the nation’s recent history. As the Dominican Republic grapples with this profound loss, communities are coming together to support one another in this time of need.
