Vigils Held in Washington Heights and Paterson After Dominican Republic Nightclub Tragedy

Dominican Community Mourns Tragedy

• 💔 The Dominican diaspora is in mourning following a devastating roof collapse at the Jetset nightclub in Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic.
• 😔 The death toll has risen to at least 184 people, with efforts shifting from rescue to recovery.

Remembering Victims and Artists

• 🎶 Singer Ruby Perez, a merengue star who frequently performed in the area, is confirmed among the dead, along with his saxophone player.
• 🎨 Fashion designer Martin Pollano is also confirmed deceased.
• 🌟 The growing list of victims includes many Dominican artists, politicians, and athletes, described as a significant loss.

Community Vigils and Support

• 🕯️ Vigils were held in Washington Heights, New York, at the Church of St. Elizabeth, and in Paterson, New Jersey, home to the largest Dominican community in the state.
• 🤝 In Paterson, the vigil took place at the Monument to Dominican Heritage, where flags are flying at half-staff.
• 🗣️ Radio station LaGra facilitated listeners sharing stories and memories, providing a way to ease the pain.
• 🙏 Prayers were offered for those still hoping for answers and struggling with the immense loss.

Personal Anecdotes of Kindness

• 💖 One anecdote shared highlighted Ruby Perez's generosity, recalling a time he allowed people without money into a club, emphasizing his humility.
• 🎤 Perez was honored with a city button two weeks prior to the tragedy when he last performed in the area.

Ongoing Investigation and Missing Persons

• 🏗️ Heavy machinery and cranes have been working non-stop at the debris site in Santo Domingo.
• ❓ Authorities in the DR have not confirmed the exact number of people inside Jetset or how many may still be missing.
• ⚠️ No survivors have been pulled from the rubble alive since the previous afternoon.