Dominican Republic Nightclub Collapse Death Toll Soars to 184

The death toll from the roof collapse at the Jet Set nightclub in Santo Domingo has tragically risen to 184, Al Jazeera reports.

As the operation transitions from rescue to recovery, the focus is now on identifying victims and investigating the cause of the disaster.

The country’s emergency operations director, Juan Manuel Mendez, announced the updated preliminary figure on Thursday, emphasizing that the search would continue until the entire site is thoroughly combed. The collapse occurred early Tuesday at the popular nightclub, which was filled with musicians, athletes, and government officials. Patrons reported dust falling from the ceiling moments before the roof gave way.

Outside the National Institute of Forensic Pathology, families anxiously await news of their loved ones. Authorities have identified 54 victims and released 28 bodies to families, but 33 remain unidentified. More than 20 of the approximately 150 injured individuals are still hospitalized, with at least eight in critical condition.