Dominican community in New York holds vigil for victims of Jet Set nightclub collapse

New York.- The Dominican community in New York—home to the largest Dominican population outside the country—came together in mourning following the tragic collapse of a nightclub roof in Santo Domingo, which claimed over 100 lives. Among the victims was beloved former baseball player Octavio Dote. Around 100 people gathered in Plaza de las Américas, a heart of Dominican culture in Upper Manhattan, where they honored the victims with prayers, songs, and emotional embraces under a large Dominican flag.

During the vigil, attendees sang the national anthem and listened to heartfelt messages from religious leaders and community figures. Organizers also announced a telethon, scheduled for April 14, to raise funds for the victims’ families. Many paid special tribute to popular Dominican singer Rubby Pérez, who was also among the deceased.

A small altar was set up in his honor, adorned with candles, flags, and his photo. According to Pérez’s representative, he had been planning a U.S. tour in May. U.S. Congressman Adriano Espaillat, the first Dominican elected to Congress, shared a video message from Washington expressing his support and commitment to the community during this time of sorrow.