BELVIDERE, Ill. – At least one person is dead and two dozen others were injured after what may have been a tornado caused the roof at a historic Rockford-area theatre to collapse Friday night.
Authorities in Belvidere, east of Rockford, say the Apollo Theatre was damaged as a death metal concert was going on Friday night. About 260 people were inside at the time.
It was initially called a “mass casualty event” after the roof collapse and the theatre’s sign blew off.
Belvidere Fire Chief Shawn Schadle told 25 News’ sister station, WIFR-TV, one person was pronounced dead at the scene. Five other people were reported to have serious injuries, 18 others had moderate injuries, and five others had moderate injuries.
“My administration is closely monitoring the roof collapse at the Apollo Theatre in Belvidere tonight,” said Illinois Governor JB Pritzker, in a social media post. I’ve been in touch with officials for updates and to direct any available resources we can. As we learn more, please follow the guidance of all local authorities.”
A Tornado Warning was in place at the time of the incident, but the National Weather Service has yet to officially confirm one went through. That will likely happen as forecasters survey the damage.
One of the bands playing at the time, Morbid Angel, also posted a statement Friday night on social media. “We ask anyone who is still traveling to the venue to please seek shelter and stay safe,” the band said. “We are currently sheltering in place, and want to extend our support and hope that everyone at the show tonight is safe. Right now our focus is on making sure everyone in the venue tonight is ok and gets home.”
As of late Friday night, authorities believe everyone in the area of the theatre has been accounted for.
Meanwhile, there are also reports of damage near Springfield in Sherman, Illinois, with pictures of at least one house destroyed there.
