The owner of the Dominican Republic night club that experienced a roof collapse on Tuesday, April 8, has finally spoken up. Initially, the death toll of this deadly accident was 18 people. Now, a confirmed 200 people have died as rescuers are still recovering bodies from the rubble.
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Antonio Espaillat owns the Jet Set nightclub in Santa Domingo. This disaster not only killed at least 200 people, but it took the life of a popular singer and many MLB players. Espaillat revealed that he was out of the country during the fatal tragedy.
Night Club Owner Speaks Out After Roof Collapse Leaves 200 Dead
Domincan Today translated his Instagram video in which he broke his silence on the disaster. "There are not enough words to express the pain this event generates," said Espaillat. "What happened has been devastating for everyone. We want you to know that we are with you and that we share your anguish."
The club owner has returned to Santa Domingo and confirmed his cooperation with the investigation. "We have been collaborating fully and transparently with the authorities, and we continue in constant cooperation with the Emergency Operations Center (COE) as search and rescue efforts continue," he continued.
Espaillat also mentioned how grateful he was for President Luis Abinader to visit the site of the tragedy. "We sincerely thank the President of the Republic, Luis Abinader Corona," said Espaillat. "His presence at the scene was a clear gesture of solidarity."
On top of that, the owner thanked the emergency workers for helping deal with the aftermath. "We also appreciate the tireless work of the emergency teams, and the respect with which the media and the public are handling this very delicate situation. Today, more than ever, we are a family. Thank you."
Over 300 emergency workers helped search for bodies trapped under the rubble that included "bricks, zinc sheets, and steel bars."
He then gave his deepest condolences in a statement for the families who lost people in the catastrophe. "Today, we want to address, above all, the families affected by the tragedy that occurred last night at Jet Set," it read.
"As the Jet Set family, we stand with you. To you, mothers, fathers, brothers, sisters, children, and loved ones of those affected: You can count on us. Everything we do now, every decision, every step, has one purpose: to live up to your pain and support you."
The authorities are still investigating the cause of the roof collapse that has now killed 200 individuals. Rescue efforts are still ongoing, and the death toll may rise even further.
