A structure collapse at the Apollo Theatre in Belvidere, Illinois during their leg of the Morbid Angel, Revocation, Crypta, and Skeletal Remains tour, killing one and injuring 28.
CBS News reports that the venue was hit by rough weather in the area, causing the collapse of an awning, part of the roof, and part of the floor. This happened 30 minutes after the show started, with about 260 people inside the theater. At the time of the storm, winds were up to 90 mph.
Video from the incident shows a collapsed marquee, with bricks and debris laying in the street.
Belvidere police Chief Shane Woody said the scene was bedlam in the immediate aftermath of the storm, as first responders rushed into action.
“Chaos. Absolute chaos. When officers are first on the scene, when the fire department and first responders get here, they do the best they can to control the chaos as much as possible. But ultimately, we go in and ultimately try and find people, and save as many people as we possibly can—and bring them to safety as best as we can.”
By 10 p.m. everyone had been cleared from the building. Officials have since announced that though the damage was severe, only one person lost their life. Still, there were numerous ambulances at the scene to treat the injured, with police and fire personnel on hand to manage the situation.
According to Belvidere Fire Chief Shawn Schadle, five people were rushed from the scene with severe injuries, while another 18 had moderate injuries, and five reportedly had only minor injuries.
Following the incident, Morbid Angel issued a statement about the incident:
“Tonight’s show is canceled due to a tornado that hit the venue. We ask anyone who is still traveling to the venue to please seek shelter and stay safe. We are currently sheltering in place, and want to extend our support and hope that everyone at the show tonight is safe.
“Right now our focus is on making sure everyone in the venue tonight is OK and gets home.”
Our hearts go out to everyone impacted by this tragedy, from the fans looking to enjoy a set from some of their favorite extreme metal bands, to the performers themselves who have had their tour impacted by the storm.