BUFFALO, NEW YORK – The following headlines were the stories we aired on the April 18th edition of The World Telegram NewsRadio — all headlines were accurate as of broadcast time and may have changed since.
Over 200 Dead After Nightclub Collapse in the Dominican Republic
The Jet Set Nightclub in the Dominican Republic collapsed early last Tuesday, killing over 200 people and injuring hundreds more. Among the deceased are famed merengue singer Rubby Perez, who was headlining the event; Nelsy Cruz, governor of Monte Cristi; and Tony Blanco, a former Major League Baseball player for the Washington Nationals.
Eyewitnesses Describe Chaos Before Collapse
Witnesses reported seeing sand-like particles falling from the ceiling and debris dropping moments before the structure gave way. Many initially believed it was an earthquake. Several said Rubby Perez continued singing after being trapped under rubble, before succumbing to his injuries.
Originally built as a movie theater, the building was converted into a nightclub in 1994 and underwent two renovations. A lightning strike in 2023 caused a fire on a rooftop generator, but the building was declared safe afterward. Experts now believe the structure lacked adequate support and failed under the weight of recent additions.
A victim’s parents have filed a lawsuit against the club owner, his mother, the Dominican government, and the mayor’s office in Santo Domingo. An investigation is ongoing.
American Missionary Rescued in South Africa After Kidnapping
An American missionary from Tennessee was kidnapped at gunpoint during a church service in South Africa last Thursday. After nearly a week of searching, police raided a house where he was believed to be held. In a gunfight, the three suspected kidnappers were killed. Authorities report the pastor was found “miraculously unharmed.”
Hamas Signals Hostage Deal as Putin Praises Releases
Hamas leadership has announced its willing to release all remaining hostages in exchange for an end to the war in Gaza. Meanwhile, Russian President Vladimir Putin hosted several former hostages at the Kremlin, praising Hamas for freeing them and calling it a “humanitarian act.”
IMF Warns of Economic Strain Amid Trade Tensions
The International Monetary Fund is expected to lower global growth forecasts due to ongoing trade tensions, especially from U.S. tariffs on China. While a recession isn’t predicted, the IMF warns of increased inflation risks and potential market instability. These concerns will be detailed in the upcoming World Economic Outlook, with a focus on protectionism’s long-term impact.
EXPO 2025 Opens in Osaka, Japan
Expo 2025 has officially opened in Osaka, Japan, under the theme “Designing Future Society for Our Lives.” The event, featuring over 160 countries, aims to showcase global innovations and foster unity.
Organizers say it will serve as a space for global collaboration on cutting-edge technology and solutions to pressing global challenges. The expo runs through October 13, 2025.
Ticket prices: 4,000 yen (approx. $28 USD) for a one-day adult pass.
For more info, visit https://www.expo2025.or.jp/.