Nightclub survivor recalls 'total chaos' of ceiling collapse that killed 221

In a heartbreaking incident at the Jet Set nightclub in Santo Domingo, a ceiling collapse during a concert led to a devastating loss of life. Carwin Javier Molleja, a 32-year-old percussionist, was enjoying a long-awaited reunion with his mother, Carmen, after three years apart. They were excited to see the merengue singer Rubby Pérez perform. However, their joyful night turned into a nightmare at 1:00 AM when Carwin noticed something fall from the ceiling. Initially, he thought it was just a small stone and did not think much of it. He recalled, 'No-one thought that because a small stone fell the entire roof was going to collapse. ' But moments later, the ceiling came crashing down, and chaos erupted. Carwin vividly remembers the terrifying sounds of the ceiling collapsing and the screams of people around him. In that moment of panic, he instinctively hugged his mother, trying to protect her. Both Carwin and Carmen were struck by falling debris but were fortunate to escape with only minor injuries. Tragically, the collapse claimed the lives of at least 218 people, including the beloved saxophonist Rubby Pérez. After the initial shock, Carwin realized that his friend Jessica and her sister were still inside the club. Desperate to find them, he rushed back into the building, calling out Jessica's name, but there was no response. He felt utterly powerless as he witnessed others trapped beneath the rubble. 'The stones were huge. I felt useless,' he expressed, highlighting the helplessness he felt in that dire situation. Carwin repeatedly went outside to call for help, but each time he returned to search for Jessica, he was met with silence. The scene was chaotic, with people frantically trying to rescue the injured. Carwin described the aftermath as 'total chaos,' with individuals pulling out those who were hurt. He even saw the moment when the saxophonist was pulled from the wreckage, a sight that left a lasting impact on him. Emergency services arrived quickly, but Carwin noted that no heavy machinery was present to assist in removing the debris. He wanted to continue searching for Jessica, but he also had to prioritize getting his mother home, as she was in pain and needed care. Later that day, the lifeless bodies of Jessica and her sister were discovered among the ruins. Carwin was filled with regret for not being able to help his friend. 'It was horrible not being able to help her. I yelled her name, but she didn't answer. It feels awful not being able to do anything,' he lamented. This tragic event has left a deep scar on the community, as families mourn the loss of their loved ones and search for answers in the wake of such a devastating disaster.