26, a tragic incident exploded—literally—in Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic, at the Jet Set nightclub. During a performance of his work, the entire structure suddenly collapsed, killing at least 79 people and injuring more than 160. Rubby Pérez, a formerly prominent merengue singer, is one of them. He was on stage when the calamity hit, doing what he did best—displaying his remarkable artistry. The 51-year-old artist began his career in music as he sought a professional baseball career. He was signed by the New York Mets in 1993 and made his professional debut in 1999.
The collapse happened about an hour into Pérez’s show at the merengue gala. Eyewitnesses described pandemonium as the building collapsed, with survivors finding themselves suddenly trapped beneath the debris. Rescue efforts have been ongoing, but the circumstances around Pérez’s death are confused. His brother said that as of Tuesday night, he had not been found under the rubble.
Pérez’s daughter, Zulinka Pérez, who plays as a backup singer and a member of the band, found some hope through the tragedy.
“He’s injured, but he’s inside; they found him singing. He started singing so they could hear him.” – Zulinka Pérez
This tragic incident took the life Rubby Pérez. It also claimed the lives of 30-time former major leaguers Octavio Dotel and Tony Blanco. The Ministry of Sports and Recreation expressed condolences for both athletes, stating:
“We deeply regret the passing of former Major League Baseball player and Dominican Sports Legend Octavio Dotel.”
“His legacy on and off the field leaves an indelible mark on the history of Dominican baseball. Peace to his soul and strength to his family and loved ones.”
“We deeply regret the passing of former Major League Baseball player Tony Blanco. His legacy will live on in the history of national baseball.”
Pérez garnered immeasurable prestige across the music spectrum, including as a one-time “international ambassador for merengue. His many hit songs, including “Volveré” and “Enamorado de Ella,” have all contributed to deeply cementing his legacy in Latin music history. His verified Instagram account shows a blacked-out profile picture in the days after the incident. It perfectly encompassed the mourning shared by fans and fellow drivers.
A family member of Pérez noted the bleak situation:
“At the moment, he has not been rescued from the rubble. He hasn’t been sent to any hospital… Only God’s grace can truly perform a miracle.” – Brother of Rubby Pérez
The outpouring of grief and support from fans and fellow artists highlights Pérez’s significant impact on both music and his community. Although Jerry passed away, his legacy will live on as a symbol of his passion for merengue and his commitment to sharing Dominican culture.
