On what was to be a great day for fans and Radiohead themselves, as they were set to play a sold-out outdoor show at Downsville Park in Toronto, Canada, turned ugly as the stage in which the band were to play on, collapsed and killed one person and injured others. The band was not on stage at the time and happened hours before fans were allowed in the Park. The man who was killed, officials say was in his mid-30's and was trapped "under rubble" after the stage fell.
Toronto Police spokesman Tony Vella said crew were setting up the stage when it collapsed,"They were setting up when the top portion collapsed on top of them. Unfortunatly, four people were hurt. The remainder of the people, when they heard the stage coming down, ran from the area." USA Today reports that the tragedy happened around 4p.m., Radiohead were set to take the stage at 9:30 p.m. that night.
The band, like usual, were cryptic in canceling the show when they announced on their website that the gig would not happen. They said, "Due to unforeseen circumstances the radiohead show at downsview park tonight has been cancelled.
Fans are advised not to make their way to the venue.
Refunds will be made at point of purchase.
Further information is to follow."
On Saturday, the band also marked a milestone in their career as their landmark 1996 record, OK Computer, turned 15. Now, with this tragedy, the anniversary of the record does not seem that important any longer.
UPDATE! Radiohead's Phil Selway has issued a statement via the band's website on the fatality in Toronto:
"We have all been shattered by the loss of Scott Johnson, our friend and colleague. He was a lovely man, always positive, supportive and funny; a highly skilled and valued member of our great road crew. We will miss him very much. Our thoughts and love are with Scott's family and all those close to him."