In very sad news from the world of music, the stage for the duo country group Sugarland collapsed during a sudden storm at the Indiana State Fair Saturday night. Five lives were tragically lost and a memorial service is being held today as the fair reopens to the public.
In addition to those who passed there were over four dozen people who were injured in the incident. Show opener Sara Bareilles had finished her performance and the tragic circumstance occurred during that time between her and Sugarland’s set. There was a crowd of approximately 12,000 on hand for the show.
In the following clip shot from a fan in the crowd you see the threatening skies and the horrible moment in which the stage collapses:
Sugarland are renowned for their special relationship with their fans and singer Jennifer Nettles wears her emotions about as open as any major performer out there. Needless to say, the band and all those associated with the tour were hit hard by the news. Here’s Nettle’s statement via the band’s website:
“I am so moved. Moved by the grief of those families who lost loved ones. Moved by the pain of those who were injured and the fear of their families. Moved by the great heroism as I watched so many brave Indianapolis fans actually run toward the stage to try and help lift and rescue those injured. Moved by the quickness and organization of the emergency workers who set up the triage and tended to the injured. There are no words to process a moment of this magnitude and gravity. There are only prayers for peace in the hearts of the bereft, and prayers of thanksgiving for those who were spared or safe. A piece of our heart is left in that grandstand. May God provide peace and healing to the people of Indianapolis.”
The Governor of Indiana is scheduled to be on hand for today’s memorial service.
