Engineer identifies potential causes of Jet Set nightclub collapse

Santo Domingo.- Teodoro Tejada, former president of the Dominican College of Engineers, Architects, and Surveyors (CODIA), outlined several potential structural failures that may have led to the collapse of the Jet Set nightclub in Santo Domingo—a disaster that has left over 113 dead and the nation in mourning. Among the causes he cited were structural overload, roof covering detachment (commonly called “soft failures”), water leaks, and vibrations from heavy sound and lighting systems.

Tejada emphasized that the building was originally constructed 45 years ago as the El Portal movie theater. Its ceiling, not intended to support additional weight, was later repurposed, possibly pushing the structure beyond its design limits. Over the years, added layers of materials, lighting fixtures, and electrical modifications may have further compromised its integrity. He warned that sound vibrations and crowded conditions also likely contributed to weakening the roof.

Calling the tragedy preventable, Tejada urged the Ministry of Housing and Buildings (MIVED) to implement stricter supervision of entertainment venues. He stressed the importance of thorough assessments of electrical systems, structural capacity, and overall building safety to avoid future disasters of this scale.