Ex MLB player Octavio Dotel, Tony Blanco and Nelson Cruz’s sister Nelsy Cruz killed in Dominican Republic roof collapse incident (Image Source: Getty)
A massive tragedy led to the killing of over 113 people in the Dominican Republic, that included ex Major League Baseball players Octavio Dotel and Tony Blanco, who were attending a party when the roof of a famous nightclub collapsed in the Dominican Republic early Tuesday.
MLB Commissioner Rob Malfred expresses shock over the deaths
As per the police, a total of 113 people were killed, that also included MLB players, Octavio Dotel, Tony Blanco, and MLB player Nelson Cruz’s sister Nelsy Cruz. Nelsy was the governor of Monte Cristi province. Police further confirmed a total of 250 people sustained injuries and were hospitalized.
Police authorities confirmed the incident took place at 1 am, while a concern was underway. Many people were attending the Jet Set nightclub in Santo Domingo. While the investigation is underway, the police haven’t been able to confirm what led to the roof to collapse.
According to the Dominican National Police spokesperson Diego Pesqueira, Octavio Dotel was rescued and was taken to a designated hospital. He said:
“Dotel was taken to one of the designated hospitals. On the way there, his condition worsened and he died.”
Police teams, along with rescue operation teams worked hard to look for and rescue all people present at the location. The teams also worked on removing the debris and concrete.
The Commissioner of Major League Baseball, Rob Manfred, confirmed the tragedy and expressed his grief. He said:
“Major League Baseball is deeply saddened by the passings of Octavio Dotel, Tony Blanco, Nelsy Cruz, and all the victims of last night’s tragedy in Santo Domingo.”
Further, Manfred said:
“We send our heartfelt condolences to the families and friends of all those who have been affected and to our colleague Nelson and his entire family.”
He added that several players in the MLB have been from the Dominican Republic. He said:
“The connection between baseball and the Dominican Republic runs deep, and we are thinking of all the Dominican players and fans across the game today.”
MLB Players Association stands by grieving families
Meanwhile, MLB Players Association’s Executive Director Tony Clark too expressed his sadness for the deaths of people, including the MLB stars. He said the union will stand beside the community. He said:
“We grieve for all the victims and send a special message of support to the families of Octavio Dotel and Tony Blanco, who leave an unspeakable void with their passing, and to Nelson Cruz, whose family lost a shining light with the death of his sister, Nelsy.”
Also Read: Ex MLB pitcher Octavio Dotel rescued after nightclub roof collapses in Dominican Republic
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