One dead, 22 injured after tent collapses at Virginia church event

A large tent used for an outdoor service at EastLake Community Church in Moneta, Virginia, collapsed Friday evening as heavy rain, lightning and strong winds swept the area, killing one person and injuring 22 others.

Bedford County spokesperson Shelley Basinger said the group was leaving the tent when it gave way, and acting fire chief Abbey Johnston reported that rescuers moved quickly to free those inside while the storm continued. Eleven victims were taken to hospitals and another eleven received on-site treatment for minor injuries.

The church’s senior pastor, Troy Keaton, said he had just approached the stage to ask attendees to return to their cars when a gust of wind caused the collapse. The tent, which had a capacity of about 1,500 seats, had passed a county building inspection three days earlier, officials noted.

Governor Abigail Spanberger said her office has been in close contact with emergency responders and pledged continued support for the community.