Yesterday tragedy struck when scaffolding crashed down on the crowd, killing one fan and injuring 19 others at a Linkin Park show in Cape Town, South Africa.
The band was purportedly unaware of the accident when they took the stage and continued with the concert, but were informed of it afterward. The accident reportedly occurred before the show when strong winds toppled a billboard structure outside the concert stadium.
A woman was pronounced dead after being rushed to a nearby hospital. Twelve others remain hospitalized. The band said in a statement on their website:
“Following our performance tonight at Cape Town Stadium, we were advised that several people were injured as a result of the collapse of an advertising tower erected by Lucozade in the parking area outside the venue.”
“We wish to express our deep sadness and concern for those injured and our heartfelt condolences to the family of the fan who died as a result of her injuries.”
“We take the safety of our fans very seriously, and our thoughts are with all of those who were affected by this tragedy.”
The band also asserted that it had “no relationship” with the sponsor who set up the felled billboard. Linkin Park is scheduled to perform in Johannesburg on Nov. 10, and is set to appear at the American Music Awards on Nov. 18.
