Concerts should be a place where fans can come together and enjoy their favorite artists in peace and community. For the most part, that’s exactly what they are. But sometimes, tragedy can strike when one least expects it. These five rock concerts that ended in tragedy serve as cautionary tales.
1. The Rolling Stones, 1969
The Altamont murder is considered by many to be the “end” of the 60s. The Rolling Stones headlined a concert at the Altamont Free Concert in December of 1969. During the band’s set, a man named Meredith Hunter approached the stage and was pushed away by Hells Angels members, who were there to provide security.
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Hunter returned to the edge of the stage with a gun, and he was subsequently stabbed to death by a Hells Angels member named Alan Passaro. The incident was caught on film and explored in depth in the documentary Gimme Shelter. Passaro was charged with murder but acquitted on the grounds of self-defense.
2. Callejeros, 2004
Argentinian rock band Callejeros were set to perform at the República Cromañón in Buenos Aires the day before New Year’s Eve in 2004. The band, fans, and residents of the city were shocked by what unfolded that night.
During the performance, a pyrotechnic fire caused all of the flammable decorations at the venue to instantly ignite. A massive fire broke out, and 194 people lost their lives. Around 700 fans were injured as well. Some of the emergency exits at the venue were chained shut, which we can only assume had a hand in how fatal the fire was.
3. Eagle Of Death Metal, 2015
In November 2015, the terrorist group ISIS took responsibility for a number of attacks that took place in Paris, France. One of the attacks took place at an Eagles Of Death Metal concert at the famed Bataclan Theater. Gunmen entered the venue and opened fire on the audience. 129 attendees lost their lives, with 350 more injured.
4. Damageplan, 2004
American heavy metal group Damageplan kicked off their December 2004 concert in Columbus, Ohio without a hitch. Unfortunately, the night took a terrible turn.
A gunman by the name of Nathan Gale opened fire on the audience at the Alrosa Villa Club, resulting in the death of band member Darrell Lance Abbott. Three other people were killed, including a fan of the band, an employee, and a security guard. The motive for the vicious attack was never revealed, and Damageplan disbanded soon after.
5. The Who, 1979
This is probably one of the most famous instances of rock concerts that took a turn towards tragedy. The Who performed in Cincinnati, Ohio in 1979 at Riverfront Coliseum. There was a miscommunication about when general admission would begin, and hundreds of concertgoers were anxiously waiting outside.
According to hearsay, a late soundcheck could be heard from outside, leading many of those outside to think the concert was starting early. Eventually, a riot formed outside of the venue. The crowd broke down the venue doors and stampeded toward the stage. 11 different people were trampled to death with 26 others injured.
Photo by Len Trievnor
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