New jersey flags to fly half-staff for 226 killed in dominican republic nightclub collapse
American flag at half-mast or half-staff blowing in wind with blue sky and clouds.

New Jersey flags to fly half-staff for 226 killed in Dominican Republic nightclub collapse

by
April 17, 2025
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TRENTON, N.J. — Acting Governor Tahesha Way has ordered all U.S. and New Jersey flags to fly at half-staff on Monday in remembrance of the 226 victims killed in the collapse of the Jet Set nightclub roof in Santo Domingo earlier this month.

The directive, issued through Executive Order No. 385, honors the lives lost in the April 8 disaster that also left at least 181 injured. Among the deceased were four residents of New Jersey, home to one of the largest Dominican communities in the United States.

“New Jersey is the proud home of a strong and vibrant Dominican community, many of whom knew someone who died or was injured in the nightclub collapse,” Acting Governor Way said in a statement released Thursday.

The Jet Set nightclub, considered a historic venue in the capital of the Dominican Republic, was hosting a live music performance when its roof collapsed in the early morning hours. Emergency responders have continued recovery efforts as officials work to confirm the full number of casualties.

Way’s decision reflects New Jersey’s longstanding ties to the Dominican Republic. More than 360,000 Dominican Americans live in the Garden State, with especially large populations in cities like Paterson, Perth Amboy, and Elizabeth.

Dominican officials express thanks

In response to the gesture, Dominican Republic Consul General José Francisco Santana Suriel expressed gratitude on behalf of Dominican President Luis Abinader and the nation’s people.

“This action is a true gesture of empathy in the face of the immense grief our people are experiencing following the tragic loss of so many lives,” Suriel said, adding thanks to officials who aided in repatriation efforts for the deceased New Jersey residents.

Key Points

  • Acting Gov. Tahesha Way ordered flags at half-staff on April 21 to honor nightclub collapse victims
  • The Jet Set nightclub roof collapse in Santo Domingo killed at least 226 and injured 181
  • Four New Jersey residents were among the dead, prompting response from state and Dominican officials

The executive order and tribute underscore New Jersey’s close cultural and familial bonds with the Dominican Republic following one of its deadliest peacetime disasters.

New Jersey will lower its flags Monday in solemn recognition of lives lost in the Santo Domingo nightclub collapse.

Phil Stilton

Phil Stilton

Phil Stilton is the Editor and Publisher of Shore News Network, an independent digital news organization covering New Jersey, national politics, public policy, public safety, and community affairs. With years of experience reporting on local government, elections, law enforcement, and issues impacting residents throughout New Jersey, Stilton has built a reputation for delivering timely news, in-depth reporting, and accountability journalism.

As the founder of Shore News Network, Stilton oversees editorial operations, investigative reporting, and breaking news coverage while working closely with journalists, public officials, and community leaders. His reporting has covered municipal government, state politics, federal policy, public records investigations, emergency management, and major news events affecting local communities.

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