Tent Collapse at Virginia Church Anniversary Kills 1, Injures 22
A large tent collapsed during a 20th anniversary celebration at EastLake Community Church in Moneta, Virginia, on Friday night, resulting in 1 death and 22 injuries. The collapse occurred amid heavy rain, lightning, and strong winds, according to officials.
The Incident
The non-denominational church was holding an outdoor service when severe weather struck. Shelley Basinger, a spokesperson for Bedford County, said the group was in the process of leaving the tent when it collapsed. Abbey Johnston, acting chief of Bedford County Fire and Rescue, described a chaotic scene as responders worked to rescue individuals. Eleven people were hospitalized, and 11 others were treated at the scene for minor injuries Source: AP News.
Investigation and Response
The tent, which had seating for 1,500 people, had passed a county building inspection three days earlier. Officials are investigating the collapse and gathering evidence. The church issued a statement requesting prayers and patience. U.S. Rep. John McGuire expressed heartbreak and said his office is monitoring the situation Source: AP News.
Sources
3 quotes“Heavy rain, lightning and strong winds tore through Moneta...as the EastLake Community Church was holding its outdoor service”
“Eleven people were taken to the hospital and 11 others had minor injuries and were treated at the scene”
“One fatality, 22 hospitalized at Eastlake Community Church after tent collapse”