1 killed, 22 injured in Virginia church tent collapse

A tent collapse during severe weather at a church in Moneta, Virginia, resulted in one fatality and 22 injuries on Friday night. The incident occurred during an outdoor service at East Lake Community Church, which was celebrating its 20th anniversary. Eleven individuals were transported to local hospitals, while another 11 received treatment for minor injuries at the scene. One person died at the scene.

Bedford County officials classified the event as a mass casualty incident. Pastor Troy Keaton of East Lake Community Church described the tragedy on social media, stating, "one of our dear brothers suffered a fatal injury." He explained that a sudden burst of wind lifted the tent just as he was preparing to release attendees to their cars.

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one of our dear brothers suffered a fatal injury.

Officials reported that a severe storm cell moved through the area shortly before the tent collapsed, bringing heavy rain, lightning, and strong winds. These conditions led to the structural failure of the tent. The structure had undergone and passed an inspection by the Bedford County Division of Building Inspections just days prior, on Tuesday.

Moneta is located approximately 40 miles southwest of Lynchburg. The church had been holding a celebration service for its 20th anniversary when the severe weather struck.

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Our church family suffered a great tragedy tonight after an outdoor tent collapsed during a celebration service for our 20th anniversary. Just as I had walked to the stage to release people to their cars a burst of wind picked up the tent.