Santo Domingo.- The tragic incident at the Jet Set nightclub that resulted in the death of young Catherine Marie Najri Nadal on April 8 has escalated into a significant legal battle, forcing a public debate on the responsibility of venue owners for safety within their establishments.
The victim’s mother, Cynthia Mercedes Nadal Porro, has filed a formal criminal complaint and joined the case as a civil party against those responsible for the nightclub. Nadal Porro is demanding RD$300 million in compensation for damages, in addition to legal interest, court costs, and professional fees.
The legal action specifically targets Antonio Espaillat López, Ana Grecia López, Maribel Espaillat de Beras, Evelyn Espaillat de Aybar, and the commercial entity Inversiones E y L, S.R.L., identified as the owners and management of the venue.
Those named in the complaint face serious accusations including involuntary homicide, complicity, and other criminal offenses. These charges are directly linked to alleged negligence in the club’s administration and security protocols.
The case has drawn considerable public and media attention not only because of the large sum of compensation demanded but also due to the identity of the plaintiff family: the Nadal Najris, well-known business owners of Delta Comercial, the company representing the Toyota and Lexus brands in the Dominican Republic. This business prominence has intensified scrutiny on Jet Set’s management and the handling of security at its facilities.
Furthermore, the plaintiffs have requested the court impose pre-trial detention against the defendants. They argue this is necessary due to an alleged risk of flight, potential concealment of evidence, and claims of threats against the physical integrity of the mother of the deceased young woman.