Pitfest commenced earlier this week, with the hardcore, punk, and metal festival slated for June 4 to June 6 in Emmen, Netherlands. Yesterday, the event was truncated after a fan died during Gorilla Biscuits' set.
The statement from the organizer says the concertgoer passed from natural causes, and Lambgoat reported that it was a heart attack. Performances from Dark Funeral and Gutalax were canceled. Pitfest's statement on Instagram reads:
It is with great sadness that we have to announce that during Pitfest one of our visitors died.
During the performance of Gorilla Biscuits, someone got unwell on the site. Despite the quick deployment of the emergency services and medical professionals, aid was unfortunately not allowed to be useful anymore. It was later determined that there was a natural cause of death.
Out of respect for the deceased, service family, friends and everyone else affected by this sad news, we have decided to discontinue the live music at that time.
Our thoughts go out to the bereaved. At a loss for words at moments like these. We wish them much strength and power as they process this loss.
In addition, we would like to express our appreciation for the first responders, our staff, volunteers and visitors who helped in any way during this urgent situation.
Pitfest has always been a place where people come together around music, friendship, and connection. Exactly why this loss hits us deeply.
Cro-Mags' Harley Flanagan, who performed at the festival that day, made a statement, though he was not fully informed on the details:
I am hearing that there was a horrible incident at the show yesterday and that someone died
I do not know the details. My heart goes out to them, their family and friends.
People please be careful when stage diving, catch each other. And when people fall, help them up. We are all part of the same family.
I have never been a fan of “crowd killing ” It’s childish. That shit was invented by bullies who are starting fights and jumping people at shows.
Let’s try to prevent these horrible things from happening
