Former Major League Baseball player Tony Blanco died in the collapse of the roof of the Jet Set discotheque in Santo Domingo, as confirmed by Efe news agency.
This tragic incident occurred during the early morning of April 8, 2025, while the renowned merenguero Rubby Pérez was offering a concert at the establishment. The death of the singer was also confirmed.
Peloteros in mourning
The National Federation of Professional Peloteros (FENAPEPRO) confirmed the news through a statement on social networks.
“We deeply regret the passing of Tony Blanco,” FENAPEPRO wrote in the statement.
“We accompany his family, friends and colleagues in their grief, and raise our prayers for his eternal rest,” the entity added.
Who was Tony Blanco?
Tony Enrique Blanco Cabrera, born on November 10, 1981 in San Juan de la Maguana, Dominican Republic, was 43 years old at the time of his death.
Blanco made his major league debut in 2005 with the Washington Nationals, appearing in 56 games that season.
In addition to his time in the Majors, he had an outstanding career in Asia, specifically in South Korea and Japan, where he established himself as a power hitter.
In the Dominican League, he was a well-known figure in the Estrellas Orientales team, serving as infielder and occasional outfielder.
Rubby Perez was singing
The Jet Set nightclub, located on Independencia Avenue in Santo Domingo, is an emblematic nightclub with more than 45 years of history, recognized for hosting performances by prominent local and international artists.
During Rubby Perez’s presentation, the facility’s roof suddenly collapsed, trapping numerous attendees under the rubble.
Dominican authorities reported that, so far, 66 people have died and about 160 have been injured.
Among the fatalities were prominent figures such as Nelsy Cruz, governor of Montecristi province and sister of baseball player Nelson Cruz, and former Major League Baseball pitcher Octavio Dotel.
The President of the Dominican Republic, Luis Abinader, visited the scene and expressed his condolences to the affected families, assuring that all possible efforts are being made in the rescue efforts.
What caused the collapse
Buzzy
The causes of the collapse are still under investigation, and authorities have deployed an extensive emergency operation to attend to the injured and search for possible survivors in the rubble.
The sports and arts community has expressed its deep sorrow for the loss of Tony Blanco and the other victims of this tragedy.
Blanco will be remembered for his contribution to baseball both in his native country and abroad, leaving a significant legacy in the sport.
Lamentamos profundamente el fallecimiento de Tony Blanco
FENAPEPRO
For more news, visit QuéOnnda.com.
