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Tragedy struck at the Apollo Theatre in Belvidere, Illinois on Friday evening as severe storms caused the roof to collapse during a sold-out concert. At least one person has died, and 28 others were injured in the incident. The Boone County sheriff's office confirmed multiple ambulances were called to the scene, and several people were seen being taken away on stretchers.
Around 260 people were inside the theater to see metal bands Morbid Angel, Revocation, and Skeletal Remains when the roof collapsed. The show was scheduled to start at 7 p.m. According to eyewitnesses, the theater's marquee and facade crashed onto State Street, littering the area with bricks and debris as first responders scrambled to help the wounded.
Morbid Angel, one of the bands scheduled to perform, took to Facebook to express their concern for the safety of those in attendance.
"We are currently sheltering in place, and want to extend our support and hope that everyone at the show tonight is safe," they wrote. "Right now our focus is on making sure everyone in the venue tonight is ok and gets home."
The metal community has
been hit hard by this tragedy, with many expressing their condolences on social media. Theresa Best, of Woodstock, was on her way to the concert when friends began calling her frantically to let her know what had happened. She said she has friends who were inside the theater that she hasn't been able to reach.
"The metal community is so nice, and my heart just aches for anybody who did lose their life,"
Best said.
"I just hope all my friends are OK."
Belvidere Fire Chief Shawn Schadle said first responders were on the scene within two minutes, since the fire station is just across the street. Chief Schadle added that MABAS (Mutual Aid Box Alarm System) Rescue Team was performing a second, more thorough search and working to stabilize the building.
The cause of the roof collapse is still under investigation, but severe storms in the area may have played a role. The Apollo Theatre was built in 1920 and has been a fixture in the Belvidere community ever since. It has hosted countless concerts, plays, and other events over the years.
This tragedy serves as a stark reminder of the importance of safety in public spaces. Concertgoers should be able to enjoy themselves without fear of harm, and it is up to venue owners and event organizers to ensure that they do. Our thoughts are with the victims and their families during this difficult time.