Unfortunately, it seems that a 58-year-old concertgoer suffered injuries that ultimately claimed his life while attending the Sunday, September 22nd date of the annual ‘Riot Fest‘ in Chicago, IL. On September 23rd, a missing persons report alert was issued online for the man, after he failed to show up at the designated meet-up spot once the festival had concluded.
The man was apparently last seen during Rob Zombie‘s set and had indicated that he intended to take in Slayer‘s highly anticipated live return that night, but was not heard from since. According to this post shared by his daughter, injuries sustained while attending the concert saw him wind up in the ICU with brain bleed and left him listed in critical condition.
That post further detailed that he initially showed signs of recovery in the hospital, but took a turn for the worse several days later, leaving the family little choice but to pull his life support.
An individual identifying themselves as a close friend of the deceased shared what appear to be the final two pictures taken of the man on Reddit, and stated yesterday, October 03rd:
“He was trampled during Slayer and has been at the ICU at Stroger hospital since Sunday the 22nd of September. He was lucid , moving only the right side of his body and the talking two days ago. Yesterday overnight took a turn for the worst and succumbed to his injuries after 1pm today”
The last photos taken from my oldest and dearest friend who died today after injuries sustained at riotfest Sunday
byu/krashtestgenius inchicago
Update: October 04th, 2024 11:52am:
Representatives for ‘Riot Fest‘ have stated that an investigation continues into the passing of the aforementioned individual, with initial findings having him being found by the ferris wheel with no obvious signs of injury. A statement on the festival’s behalf is expected once they are able to ascertain more clearly what happened.
Update: October 04th, 2024 03:26pm:
‘Riot Fest‘ have now issued the below statement:
“Riot Fest Community,
We are heartbroken to share that a festival attendee passed away yesterday. Our deepest condolences go out to his family, friends, and loved ones during this incredibly challenging time.
The health, safety, and well-being of our fans and community have always been our top priority. We are aware of the various speculations surrounding this tragedy, including claims that it may be linked to the Slayer crowd. However, we want to clarify that this is not the case. The on-site medical team responded to this medical incident, near the Ferris Wheel area, prior to Slayer‘s performance. Out of respect for the family’s privacy, we will not be sharing further details.
We ask our community to come together, support one another, and keep those affected in their thoughts.”
