Re: Indiana State Fair Stage Collapse
we're very sad here in Indy. I was doing a show in Fishers, In, about 20 miles northeast of the fairgrounds at the same time as this, and during load in at the club, straight line winds hit us very hard lifting outdoor seating umbrellas up and out of the tables toppling food plates and drink glasses and dropping them onto the patrons in an instant. Noone was injured fortunately. Several families were present in this area as it is a very popular commercial area with restaurants and shops. The area was heavily populated and people scattered instantly for cover.
I watched this storm approach from the west around 8:20 pm and honestly, was scared at what I saw approaching. I'm used to storms here, this just looked different and I found it very unnerving. My wife and I also had attended the fair the night before and I remember looking at the empty stage structure thinking about its vulnerability to weather. Our load in last evening was completed before heavy rains and wind hit the area just moments later. I consider myself and my helper and the band members very fortunate.
five are now reported dead, with many, many others injured quite seriously. I'm without words. and thinking of the families of those affected. I knew nothing of the event until our performance was completed.
Steve
