UN chief 'deeply saddened' for deadly nightclub roof collapse in Dominican Republic

By Merve Aydogan

HAMILTON, Canada (AA) - UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres expressed sadness Wednesday for a deadly roof collapse at a nightclub in the Dominican Republic.

"The Secretary-General is deeply saddened by the incident in Santo Domingo early yesterday in which dozens of people died, including a retired UN staffer, and many others were injured following the collapse of the roof of a nightclub," his spokesperson Stephane Dujarric said at a news conference.

Guterres conveyed his “heartfelt condolences to the families of the victims and the government and people of the Dominican Republic.

“The United Nations is supporting the authorities’ response and is ready to provide further assistance,” it added.

At least 113 people were killed when the roof of the Jet Set nightclub collapsed early Tuesday during a performance by renowned merengue singer Rubby Perez, according to authorities.

Among the victims are provincial governor Nelsy Cruz and two former Major League Baseball players -- Octavio Dotel and Tony Blanco.