Emotional Tribute After Tragic Nightclub Collapse in Dominican Republic
TAMPA — When Junior Caminero hit his first homer of the season Tuesday, he had to fight back tears.
Though his head was in the game against the Angels, his heart was in his native Dominican Republic, where at least 124 people were killed when the roof collapsed at a popular nightclub 10 minutes from his Santo Domingo home.
A Tribute in Memory
“We were talking about it before the game, and I wanted to hit it for them,” Caminero said Wednesday. “It was hard for me not to cry when I hit the home run, because it was very emotional for me. But thank God, I was able to do it, and I dedicated that to the D.R.”
Caminero, 21, posted a statement of condolence on his Instagram account and honored the victims by walking to the plate to a song by Rubby Pérez, the merengue artist who was among those confirmed dead.
Remembering the Lost
Two former big-leaguers, Octavio Dotel and Tony Blanco, were among those killed in the incident, along with the sister of former Ray Nelson Cruz.
Caminero had spoken with Dotel during the Dominican winter league playoffs and expressed his sadness at the losses. “It’s a very sad thing,” he said. “Because in the D.R., everybody is like part of your family.”
Caminero had been to the Jet Set club recently and shared his memories of the place, reflecting on the what-ifs of the tragic event.
“My grandma called me (Tuesday) and they’re good, but they’re sad. … Everybody is sad. I’m sad too.”
Conclusion
The emotional impact of the tragic nightclub collapse in the Dominican Republic has deeply affected Junior Caminero and his community. Through his tribute and dedication, he honors the memory of the victims and shows solidarity with his homeland during this difficult time.
FAQs
How many people were killed in the nightclub collapse?
At least 124 people were killed in the tragic incident.
Who were some of the notable victims?
Former big-leaguers Octavio Dotel and Tony Blanco, along with the sister of former Ray Nelson Cruz, were among those confirmed dead in the collapse.
