# Dominican Republic rehabilitation center deaths > Live situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/dominican-republic-rehabilitation-center-deaths > Updated: 2026-08-30T02:00:05.000Z. Sources: 3. Developments: 2. Recent deaths at rehabilitation centers in the Dominican Republic have prompted allegations of abuse and negligence, raising concerns regarding the oversight of addiction treatment facilities. In July, 42-year-old Luis René Contreras Martínez died at the ‘El Rescatador’ center in Boca de Yuma. While a preliminary police report suggested the fatal head injury resulted from a fall, family members allege physical abuse, including neck compression and blows to the genital area. The facility was reportedly operating without a health-ministerial license at the time of the incident. In August, 25-year-old José Franco Guerrero died of respiratory arrest following a six-month stay at the Fundación Evangélica Ejército de Dios Rescatando al Caído in La Romana. His family alleges that his health deteriorated due to a lack of food and that funds intended for a blood transfusion were instead diverted to cover his stay. These incidents have highlighted broader issues regarding the treatment of individuals with mental health and addiction issues in the country. ## Timeline ### 2026-08-30: Dominican Republic rehabilitation center death sparks investigation The death of José Franco Guerrero at a Dominican Republic rehabilitation center has sparked allegations of medical negligence and improper facility operations. 3 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/dominican-republic-rehabilitation-center-death-sparks-investigation ### 2026-08-01: Death of Patient at El Rescatador Rehab Center Sparks Abuse Allegations in Dominican Republic A 42‑year‑old died at the unlicensed El Rescatador rehab centre in Boca de Yuma, Dominican Republic, amid allegations of prior physical abuse; authorities are investigating the cause and oversight failures. 3 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/death-of-patient-at-el-rescatador-rehab-center-sparks-abuse-allegations-in-dominican-republic --- Cite as: Dominican Republic rehabilitation center deaths. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/dominican-republic-rehabilitation-center-deaths