Morbid Angel's show originally scheduled for tonight, April 1, at The Forge in Joliet, IL has been postponed to April 5. The news comes from Morbid Angel, who has issued the following statement on last night's venue collapse and tonight's postponement.
"On behalf of Morbid Angel, we want to first and foremost send our deepest and heartfelt condolences to the family and friends of the individual who tragically lost their life last night in the venue roof collapse due to heavy winds from a Tornado.
"We lost a brother in Metal last night, and many were hurt and injured in this tragedy. We would like to express how truly thankful we are for those in attendance (Fans, Venue Staff, Bands and Crew) that assisted with getting people out and to safety. We want to thank the First responders (Fire, EMT, Police) that were on the scene quickly and were able to help in getting people out of the venue and to hospitals for treatment as quickly as possible. YOU ARE TRUE HEROES!
"At this time our minds continue to remain with all those who were injured and hospitalized, as well as everyone who was effected by the storms in the surrounding area. We truly hope for a fast recovery of all who were injured.
"As a result of the events of last night, we are working to re-scheduling tonight’s show in Joliet, IL to Wednesday April 5th. With that said, our focus remains with the Victims of this terrible storm."
On March 31, the roof and floor collapsed at the Apollo venue in Belvidere, IL where Morbid Angel, Revocation, Crypta, and Skeletal Remains were playing. Nobody in any of the bands were hurt. One concertgoer was killed and 40 were injured, according to a report from the New York Times.
"Initially, I was confused because it felt like an earthquake, and I was thinking, 'Why would there be an earthquake right now?'" said show attendee Chris Bryant in the report. "As soon as that happened, I watched as the entire roof collapsed on everybody, basically right where we were standing."
The collapse happened shortly after Crypta finished playing and the venue paused all activities for 30 minutes due to severe weather. It was during that pause that the roof caved in.
According to CBS at the time, the Chicago Fire Department reported that 20 ambulances were requested to arrive at the scene. The collapse of the structure was due to severe storms in the area with up to 90 mph winds. CBS further reports that trees also came down on cars near the venue and in the area.
