Owners of A Collapsed Dominican Nightclub Arrested Over Deaths of 236 People

Authorities in the Dominican Republic have arrested the owners of the Jet Set nightclub, where a roof collapse in April claimed the lives of 236 people, including prominent figures. The arrests were made on manslaughter charges, prosecutors announced on Thursday.

Antonio Espaillat, 59, and his sister, Maribel Espaillat, face accusations of gross negligence and irresponsibility following the April 8 disaster, which occurred during a live performance by merengue legend Rubby Perez, who was among the victims.

Other casualties included two retired Major League Baseball players and a provincial governor, making it one of the deadliest tragedies in the country’s recent history.

According to prosecutors, the roof of the iconic venue had been leaking for years, and despite visible structural concerns, no repairs were made. Antonio Espaillat acknowledged after the incident that the building had long-standing issues that were never addressed or inspected.

The Dominican Republic currently lacks legal requirements for safety inspections of privately-owned structures. In response to the catastrophe, President Luis Abinader announced that a draft bill mandating structural inspections is underway.

The Espaillats, known for their media and hospitality empire, now face over 50 lawsuits from families of the victims. Despite the legal challenges, the family has pledged full cooperation with the investigation.