COE Director breaks down in tears while reporting on Jet Set tragedy

Santo Domingo.- During a press conference, Major General Juan Manuel Méndez, director of the Emergency Operations Center (COE), fought back tears as he provided preliminary details on the tragic collapse at the Jet Set nightclub, where 221 people lost their lives.

Méndez, who has led the COE for 20 years, described this as the most difficult task of his career. He expressed deep gratitude to the rescuers, institutions, authorities, and the press for their efforts. However, the emotional toll was evident as he spoke about the heartache of not being able to reach everyone in time. “I apologize because every time we see someone claiming for their loved one, we are filled with helplessness,” he said.

The general confirmed that, despite rescuing 189 people, the nation is in mourning over the tragic loss. “We have a total of 221 people so far,” he stated, “and we did everything we could.” He offered his heartfelt solidarity with the families affected by the disaster, promising another update later. His voice cracked with emotion as he conveyed the collective grief of the Dominican people.