Maximo Peña had frequented the Jet Set nightclub every Monday for the past 30 years. This week, he was thrilled to attend a concert by renowned Dominican singer Rubby Pérez with his wife and sister. Tragically, they are now among the missing after the roof of the nightclub caved in amidst the performance. "I haven't heard any news about any of them," lamented Shailyn Peña, Maximo's 17-year-old daughter, who is anxiously waiting outside the devastated venue.
She reflects on her father's initial plans to take her mother, who ultimately decided against attending that night, calling it a "blessing in disguise." Shailyn is surrounded by rescue workers meticulously searching for survivors, including her cousin, which gives her a sense of relief, but the uncertainty remains overwhelming. "I want to go in and pull him out myself," she expressed, highlighting the painful waiting game of families as rescue operations continue.
As the death toll rises with every hour, responders are arduously sifting through debris, with search teams from Israel and Mexico assisting in the effort. The Director of the Emergency Operations Centre, Juan Manuel Mendez, remained hopeful, asserting that "nothing can be ruled out" in the search for survivors. In a public address, President Luis Abinader has declared three days of national mourning, acknowledging the tragedy that has unfolded.
Among the deceased are notable national figures, including Pérez and former baseball players Octavio Dotel and Tony Blanco. As rescue efforts progress, the focus will shift to determining the cause of the collapse. Speculations point to a fire that occurred at the venue two years ago, potentially compromising its structural integrity. Antonio Espaillat, owner of the nightclub, expressed his condolences and commitment to cooperating with investigations.
With Shailyn's birthday approaching, she is faced not with celebrations but uncertainty, as her younger stepsisters are frightened after learning their parents are trapped. The collapse has marked a somber moment in the Dominican Republic's history, with families now grappling with despair and unanswered questions.
