At least 8 people were killed and several were left injured as chaos broke out during rapper Travis Scott’s performance at the Atsroworld Festival in Houston, on Friday night. The incident happened when a wave of the crowd surged forward towards the stage, crushing the ones at the front. Unable to escape the surge, many were killed. Soon, panic set in and pandemonium ensued.
Here’ what we know so far about the incident, people involved and the probe.
What is Astroworld?
Astroworld is a music festival that was first launched by Travis Scott in 2018. The 2021 edition was the music festival’s third season. The last year’s edition was curbed due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
The 2018 line-up consisted of Post Malone, Metro Boomin, Lil Wayne, Scott himself and others.
The 2019 version had an expanded line-up. It was headlined by Gucci Mane, Rosalia, Migos, Pharrell Williams and Megan thee Stallion.
After the 2020 edition’s cancellation, Scott collaborated with Epic Games to provide a virtual Astroworld themed event in “Fortnite.”
A portion of the proceeds would be donated to the festival’s official charity partner, Cactus Jack Foundation that aims to “empower and enrich the lives of youth by providing access to education and creative resources to ensure long-term success.”
Why Houston?
Houston is Scott’s home city. This is where Six Flags Astroworld was once located. It was an amusement park that closed in 2005. Both the festival and his third album were named after the park.
Astroworld issues a statement on the incident
“Our hearts are with the Astroworld festival family tonight — especially those we lost and their loved ones. We are focused on supporting local officials however we can. With that in mind, the festival will no longer be held on Saturday [..] Thank you to our partners at the Houston Police Department, Fire Department and NRG Park for their response and support.”
Who is Travis Scott?
Travis Scott is a 30-year-old US rapper. He is best known for his 2018 album “Astroworld”. He has collaborated with Drake, Young Thug and others. He was married to Kylie Jenner and they share a child together.
Who was set to perform?
The 2021 lineup included SZA, Tame Impala, Bad Bunny, Earth, Wind & Fire, 21 Savage, Baby Keem, Chief Keef, Master P, BIA, Don Toliver, Young Thug and more.
Travis Scott issues a statement
“I’m absolutely devastated by what took place last night. My prayers go out to the families and all those impacted by what happened at Astroworld Festival. Houston PD has my total support as they continue to look into the tragic loss of life.”
“I am committed to working together with the Houston community to heal and support the families in need. Thank you to Houston PD, Fire Department and NRG Park for their immediate response and support. Love You All.”
Problems with Astroworld before
In 2019, three were trampled and hospitalized in November as scores rushed to get into the festival.
What authorities say
Authorities said they would watch video, interview witnesses and review concert protocols to determine how eight people died at a Houston music festival when fans suddenly surged toward the stage to watch rapper Travis Scott.
“It may well be that this tragedy is the result of unpredictable events, of circumstances coming together that couldn’t possibly have been avoided,” said Judge Lina Hidalgo, Harris County’s top elected official. “But until we determine that, I will ask the tough questions.”
