Former MLB Player Octavio Dotel was one of many individuals who lost their lives when a nightclub ceiling caved in the Dominican Republic, as reported by his organization and confirmed by an official from the country.
Dotel passed away en route to the hospital following his rescue from the debris of the Jet Set nightclub in Santo Domingo. This information was shared by Juan Manuel Méndez, who serves as the director of the National Emergency Operations Center, during an interview with CNN.
The nightclub was holding an event where singer Rubby Pérez was set to perform when the unfortunate accident took place.
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According to reports by local media, Pérez was rescued alive from the debris.
Major League Baseball is profoundly saddened by the deaths of Octavio Dotel, Tony Blanco, Nelsy Cruz, and all the victims of yesterday’s tragic event in Santo Domingo," stated MLB Commissioner Rob Manfred. "Our deepest sympathies go out to the loved ones of everyone impacted as well as to our colleague Nelson and his whole family.
Baseball has strong ties with the Dominican Republic, and our thoughts go out to all the Dominicans who play and support the sport everywhere today.
https://twitter.com/astros/status/1909700404566258091?ref_src=twsrc%5EtfwColegio Sabiduria y Baluerte, Dotel's educational establishment, honored him with a statement following his passing.
The declaration stated, "His legacy of devotion, guidance, and steadfast commitment to education has laid down a distinct course for our organization, making an unforgettable impression on each one of us fortunate enough to have known and collaborated with him."
Dotel played for 13 Major League Baseball teams during his career and claimed victory in the World Series with the St. Louis Cardinals in 2011.
He was similarly honored with an induction into the Dominican Sports Hall of Fame, as reported by the Dominican Republic Professional Baseball League, which also conveyed its sympathy over his death.
The Houston Astros likewise expressed their condolences through a statement shared on Instagram.
Dotel, aged 51, played for five years (2000-2004) out of his impressive 15-year tenure in Major League Baseball with the Houston Astros. While with the team, he stood out as one of the top relievers in baseball and was a key member of a formidable bullpen alongside Hall of Fame pitcher Billy Wagner and All-Star closer Brad Lidge.
The verified fatality count from the event stood at 66. Previously, authorities reported that a minimum of 160 individuals sustained injuries.