Five Dead at Indiana State Fair Stage Collapse

By Chuck Sudo in News on Aug 14, 2011 2:40PM

The death toll now stands at five after high wind gusts brought down a stage at the Indiana State Fair last night where country music superstars Sugarland were to perform.

The collapse occurred moments after a program director for a country music station announced the show would go on, but that fans should seek shelter should thing get dicey. Prior to the announcement, fair officials and the Indiana State Police made the decision to evacuate the crowd.

After the collapse, hundreds of concertgoers tended to the injured, trying to raise heavy beams and equipment. Most of the injured were in a VIP section of the stage called "the Sugar Pit." Sugarland lead singer Jennifer Nettles issued a statement on the tragedy, saying they're “stunned and heartbroken for the fans and their families in Indiana. We hold those injured in our prayers at this very sad time."

The fair is closed today. Indiana Gov. Mitch Daniels and Indianapolis Mayor Greg Ballard are currently touring the State Fairgrounds.