TRAGEDY IN THE DOMINICAN REPUBLIC: PASSAIC WOMAN AMONG OVER 220 DEAD IN JET SET NIGHTCLUB COLLAPSE

A heartbreaking disaster unfolded at the Jet Set nightclub in Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic, when the roof collapsed during a packed merengue concert. According to De Ultimo Minuto Media, the tragedy claimed the lives of at least 220 people and left more than 100 others injured.

Among the victims was 24-year-old Jennifer Contreras of Passaic, New Jersey. Jennifer had traveled to the Dominican Republic to celebrate her birthday and attend a beauty certification course. After days of desperate searching, her family confirmed the devastating news of her passing.

The collapse also took the lives of several notable figures, including legendary merengue artist Rubby Pérez, former MLB pitcher Octavio Dotel, and New York fashion designer Martín Polanco. Rescue efforts are still underway, with international teams supporting local authorities in ongoing search-and-recovery operations. The cause of the structural failure remains under investigation.

In a GoFundMe campaign, Jennifer’s brother shared that she had been pursuing certification in eyebrow micropigmentation to help launch her own beauty business.

“Jennifer was the most kind-hearted, loving, and soft person,” he wrote. “She was an incredible daughter, sister, friend, cousin, and more.”

He also expressed the family’s financial struggle: “Because Jennifer’s remains are in the Dominican Republic, the cost of logistics, mortuary services in both countries, and funeral arrangements in the U.S. has placed an enormous burden on us during this painful time.”

Our hearts go out to Jennifer’s family and all those affected by this unimaginable loss.

Rest in peace, Jennifer.

Link to her GoFundMe Campaign: https://www.gofundme.com/f/in-memoriam-of-jennifer-contreras-siempre-mas-hermosa