MLB Mourns: Octavio Dotel & Tony Blanco Killed in Nightclub Roof Collapse
Former MLB players Octavio Dotel and Tony Blanco were among 113 people killed when the roof of the iconic Jet Set nightclub collapsed early Tuesday during a packed merengue concert. The tragic event also claimed the life of Nelsy Cruz, Monte Cristi governor and sister of MLB star Nelson Cruz.
More than 255 people suffered injuries, and search-and-rescue teams kept digging through debris more than 24 hours after the collapse. The cause of the structural failure remains under investigation.
A Night of Celebration Turns to Horror
The incident occurred just after 1 a.m. as hundreds gathered at the popular venue in Santo Domingo. Local officials said the concert had drawn a crowd that included politicians, athletes, and public figures.
Octavio Dotel, 51, was rescued from the rubble but died en route to the hospital, according to police spokesman Diego Pesqueira. Known for his time as a high-powered reliever, Dotel pitched for 13 teams over a 15-year career and helped the St. Louis Cardinals win the 2011 World Series. He recorded 109 career saves and finished with a 3.78 ERA.
Blanco, 43, played 56 games with the Washington Nationals in 2005 and later found success in Japan and the Dominican Republic. His son, Tony Blanco Jr., is currently in the Pittsburgh Pirates’ minor league system.
MLB and Global Baseball Community in Mourning
“We send our heartfelt condolences,” said MLB Commissioner Rob Manfred, honoring Dotel, Blanco, Cruz, and the many others lost.
“The connection between baseball and the Dominican Republic runs deep.”
MLBPA executive Tony Clark added: “Dotel and Blanco leave an unspeakable void. We grieve for all the victims.”
Nelsy Cruz Among the Victims
Cruz, 54, reportedly called Dominican President Luis Abinader moments after the collapse. She was trapped beneath debris and later died at the hospital.
President Abinader visited the scene and said rescue teams would continue their efforts, holding out hope for more survivors.
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