Radiohead Stage Collapse In Toronto Results In One Death
An outdoor stage at Downsview park in Toronto was supposed to house British rockers Radiohead on Saturday, instead the weekend had a deadly turn. The Radiohead show was cancelled after the stage collapsed, killing one man and injuring three others.
Scott Johnson, a drum technician for the band, was killed when the structure collapsed, pinning and killing him. CNN reports that the horrific accident occurred around 4 P.M. on Saturday, a mere hour before doors opened for concert goers.
While preparing for the show, the "scaffolding-like material," which was approximately 50 feet tall, collapsed sending the crew on stage running for their lives.
Sergeant Tim Burrows, spokesman for the Toronto police, revealed to Reuters that around 20 people had been near the stage when it gave way.
Besides taking Scott Johnson's life, the accident resulted in an unidentified 45-year-old male being taken to the hospital for a head injury, and two other males being treated at the scene for "less serious injuries."
Radiohead released a statement on their Facebook about the deadly stage collapse. "We have all been shattered by the loss of Scott Johnson, our friend and colleague. He was a lovely man, always positive, supportive and funny; a highly skilled and valued member of our great road crew. We will miss him very much. Our thoughts and love are with Scott's family and all those close to him."
Toronto Fire Services spokesman Captain Mike Strapko explained to Reuters that the roof of the stage had collapsed.
"It's like an arch made out of round piping similar to what they use for scaffolding." The roof had lighting and other equipment rigged to it, "So that's what came down and did crush that one individual."
Radiohead had just performed in Manchester, Tennessee at Bonnaroo the weekend before. The show in Toronto was set to be the band's last stop in their North American tour.