U.S. flag to fly at half-staff in New Jersey in honor of Jet Set victims

New Jersey — In a gesture of solidarity with the Dominican people, the Government of the State of New Jersey has ordered that the flag of the United States and the state flag be flown at half-staff next Monday, April 21.

The decision, issued by executive order by Interim Governor Tahesha Way, seeks to pay tribute to the more than 230 fatal victims of the collapse of the roof at the Jet Set nightclub in Santo Domingo, which occurred on April 8.

The tragedy has deeply shocked both the Dominican Republic and its community in this state, where more than 380,000 Dominicans reside. Among the deceased are residents of New Jersey, and many families have been directly affected.

In this context, the Consul General of the Dominican Republic in New Jersey, José Francisco Santana Suriel, said: “We are deeply grateful to Governor Phil Murphy and his entire team for their constant support and solidarity with the Dominican Republic. This action is a true gesture of empathy in the face of the immense pain that our people are experiencing after the tragic loss of so many lives in the collapse of the Jet Set nightclub in Santo Domingo.”

“On behalf of the President of the Dominican Republic, Luis Abinader, we express our sincere gratitude to Interim Governor Tahesha Way and the entire Murphy administration. We appreciate the support provided to the Dominican community in New Jersey. We also thank the elected officials who collaborated in the repatriation process and provided accompaniment both here and in our country,” he added.

Santana reiterated this consulate’s commitment to the affected community while highlighting the importance of this symbolic action. It strengthens the ties between both nations at a time of deep mourning, when solidarity and empathy play a leading role.