1 Dead, 22 Injured In Tent Collapse At VA Church Service

BEDFORD COUNTY, VA — One person was killed and 22 were injured on Friday when a tent collapsed during an outdoor church service in Bedford County, according to officials.

The incident occurred around 6:45 p.m. during a service at EastLake Community Church in Moneta, a small town located about 124 miles southwest of Richmond, Bedford County officials said in a statement.

Before the collapse, severe storms were moving through the area, bringing heavy rain, lightning and strong winds. Officials said weather conditions caused the tent structure to fail.

Troy Keaton, the non-denominational church’s senior pastor, told The Associated Press he had just walked up to the stage to tell the group to go to their cars when a gust of wind picked up the tent.

“Sadly one of our dear brothers suffered a fatal injury,” he said in a statement on social media. “Our hearts are broken for his precious family.”

Eleven people were taken to local hospitals by ambulance, while 11 others were treated at the scene for minor injuries.

According to officials, the tent had passed an inspection conducted by the Bedford County Division of Building Inspections on Tuesday.

"We extend our condolences to the East Lake Church community during this difficult time and thank our first responder community, both locally and regionally, for their dedicated efforts this evening," Bedford County officials said in a statement.

Virginia Gov. Abigail Spanberger also released a statement following the collapse.

"My heart is heavy with the news of the tragedy at EastLake Community Church this evening," Virginia Gov. Abigail Spanberger said in a statement on social media. "I am grateful for the quick response of first responders, and our team is in close contact with the response team on the ground to provide assistance. I am praying for the EastLake Community Church and all who are impacted, and we will continue to support the community during this difficult time."