At least 14 people have been injured at a Backstreet Boys concert.
The ‘I’ll Never Break Your Heart’ hitmakers were forced to cancel a planned performance at the WinStar World Casino and Resort in Thackerville, Oklahoma, on Saturday (18/08.18) after a storm hit and fans waiting at the venue were hurt when a structure at the entrance collapsed due to the high winds.
Kym Koch Thompson, a spokesperson for the venue, told ‘Entertainment Tonight’: "At 5pm, WinStar World Casino and Resort officials began evacuation of the outdoor concert venue after observing that lightning was within four miles of the casino.
"All patrons in the area were asked to move and to seek shelter from the storm. However, about 150 patrons who were standing in line for the Backstreet Boys concert did not heed staff’s warnings.
"At approximately 5:30 p.m., the storm hit and knocked over the concert entrance trusses with 70-80 mile an hour winds and heavy rain. 14 people were treated at the scene and then transported to local hospitals. Two have already been released. Love County emergency responders, Lighthorse Police and Oklahoma Highway Patrol are on scene.
"We know that fans often suffer through inclement weather for their favorite acts, but this was an unusual event and our thoughts are with those who were injured during this storm."
The group confirmed the show had been cancelled due to damage caused by the storm and the safety risks for fans.
They posted on Twitter: "We never want to put our fans in harm’s way and with tonight’s weather and the injuries from earlier, we have decided to cancel the show and will attempt to reschedule. The most important thing is for everyone to get home safely and we will see you all very soon!"
And on their individual accounts, the members of the band sent well-wishes to their fans who had planned to be at the gig, particularly those who were injured.
Ahead of the cancellation announcement, Nick Carter tweeted: "Waiting and praying for our fans that were injured. If we can perform were ready to go. But safety is first."
AJ McLean posted: "Oklahoma we love you. Travel home safely tonight. We will be back soon!"
Howie Dorough shared: "So sad as I was really excited for us to rock Oklahoma tonight. Instead the weather did it’s own pre show performance and showed us all up. Hope everyone’s ok and safe."
Kevin Richardson confirmed: "Update… unfortunately, due to damage sustained in the storm earlier this evening, we are unable to perform the show tonight. Safety is always #1. Keep your tickets because, Backstreet WILL BE BACK! (sic)"
Brian Littrell also vowed to play the show at a later date.
He tweeted: " weather wasn’t are friend tonight…. keep your tics cause Backstreet will be Back…(sic)"
Backstreet Boys fans injured at gig venue
