Dozens injured as LED wall crashes onto crowd
An open-air rap concert in Germany was cut short after 28 people were injured by falling LED screens.
Tuesday, 10 Sep 2019 15:43 GMT
Over 18,000 people attended the concert despite weather warnings
The wall of screens was blown down by a “short, but powerful storm” at the concert which took place on the outskirts of the city of Essen.
Despite the German weather service having issued a storm warning at 7.30pm (5.30pm GMT), over 18,000 people had gathered to watch a performance by rappers Materia and Casper when the signage fell down.
German news agency, Deutsche Presse-Agentur (DPA), reported that doctors assisted around 150 affected attendees – two of which were seriously injured – where they battled difficult conditions such as darkness and rain. It is believed the majority of those treated were suffering from shock.
Many thanks also to our crews, the emergency services and local authorities for their professional action and support. We hope all injured people recover quickly”
Police are now investigating the possibility of negligent assault and are seeking the support of those who have been injured, as well as appealing for video footage of the incident.
In an Instagram post, the rappers issued a statement which reads: “As you have probably heard from the media or by being on site, we had to cancel the Casper and Marteria concert in Essen yesterday. Several people had to be treated in hospital. We are deeply affected and wish all injured a quick recovery.
“We want to thank all fans on site for their understanding of the situation and for their helpfulness. We hope you all made it home well. […] Many thanks also to our crews, the emergency services and local authorities for their professional action and support. We hope all injured people recover quickly.”
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