Pope offers prayers, condolences following nightclub collapse in Santo Domingo

Pope Francis has expressed deep sorrow and solidarity with the people of the Dominican Republic following the tragic collapse of a nightclub roof in the capital city of Santo Domingo that claimed numerous lives and left many injured.

In a telegram of condolence addressed to Archbishop Francisco Ozoria Acosta of Santo Domingo, on April 10, the Holy Father, through Cardinal Secretary of State Pietro Parolin, conveyed his heartfelt prayers for the eternal repose of the deceased and his spiritual closeness to the grieving families.

“Pope Francis, deeply saddened by the painful news of the tragic collapse in Santo Domingo, which has caused numerous victims and injuries, offers his prayers for the eternal repose of the deceased,” the telegram read.

The Holy Father also extended his “heartfelt condolences to the relatives of the deceased, together with his expressions of consolation, his heartfelt concern, and his wishes for the speedy recovery of the injured.”

The pope encouraged all those involved in relief and recovery efforts, invoking the intercession of the Blessed Virgin Mary, Consoler of the Afflicted, and imparting his Apostolic Blessing as “a sign of hope in the Risen Lord.”

The incident occurred when the roof of a crowded nightclub in Santo Domingo suddenly collapsed during a late-night gathering, resulting in multiple fatalities and injuries. 

Emergency response teams rushed to the scene to rescue survivors and provide medical assistance, while authorities have launched an investigation into the cause of the collapse.

As the country mourns, the message from Pope Francis serves as a reminder of the Church’s closeness to those who suffer and the importance of unity and compassion in the face of tragedy.