Radiohead Stage Collapse

Toronto authorities say Radiohead drum tech Scott Johnson, 33, of Doncaster, England was killed and another person was seriously hurt after the outdoor stage roof collapsed at about 4 pm Saturday afternoon while crews were setting up for a Radiohead concert. Two other people were injured and treated at the site. 

Paramedics and fireman used inflatable airbags to lift the twisted wreckage to get to Johnson.  He was pronounced dead at the scene of “heavy crushing injuries” according to police.

The Live Nation produced show at Downsview Park was immediately cancelled before the admission gates were to be opened at 5 pm.  A crowd of around 40,000 was expected for the 7:30 pm soldout show.

The portable stage roof had already been raised into position with its full compliment of lighting gear.  The band was only moments from getting on stage to soundcheck when the center section of the roof collapsed onto the deck without any warning.  It appears that both of the front and one rear roof support connections failed.

Toronto was experiencing sunshine and blue skies when the stage failed making weather an unlikely cause of the accident.  A forensic investigation is in progress.

Radiohead performed in Montreal on Friday and Toronto was the last date on the band’s North American tour.  The band’s next scheduled date is June 30 in Rome, Italy.