Stage Collapse at Sugarland Concert Kills Five
Wind gust topples stage minutes before Sugarland is scheduled to perform.
Moments before the country duo Sugarland were set to take the stage Saturday night at the Indiana State Fair, a 60-70 mph wind gust caused the massive stage rigging to collapse, killing four fans and one member of the crew. At least forty-five others were injured.
Singer Sara Bareilles had finished the opening set 30 minutes prior to the tragedy.
The performers took to Twitter to express their shock and grief. “We are all right. We are praying for our fans, and the people of Indianapolis. We hope you’ll join us. They need your strength,” tweeted Jennifer Nettles and Kristian Bush of Sugarland.
Sara Bareilles stated, “I’m speechless and feel so helpless. Please send love and prayers to Indianapolis tonight. My heart aches for the lives lost.”
The fair was closed on Sunday and is set to reopen Monday with a memorial service and moment of silence to honor the victims.
Investigations have been launched by both the Indiana Occupational Health and Safety Administration and the State Fire Marshal’s office. The Mid-America Sound Corporation which erected the stage is conducting its own internal investigation into the collapse.
Other musicians scheduled to perform during the fair, later this week include Janet Jackson, Maroon5 and Train. There has been no announcement at this time as to whether these shows will be cancelled.
Saturday night’s stage collapse is one of three such events to occur this summer. The Sugarland tragedy was preceded by stage collapses, also due to extreme weather, at both a Flaming Lips concert in Oklahoma and a Cheap Trick concert in Canada.
The chilling footage below was captured by many of the 12,000 concert goers. Please be warned, this video is shocking and disturbing.
Our deepest sympathies go out to the families and loved ones of the victims.