A deadly weather-related accident unfolded Friday evening at a church gathering in Virginia when strong winds caused an outdoor tent to give way, leaving one person dead and several others hurt.
The collapse happened during a service at EastLake Community Church in Moneta, Virginia, where powerful wind gusts brought the tent down.
In a message posted to Facebook, the church said first responders were at the scene assisting those who needed medical attention. “First responders are on site providing care to those in need. We would appreciate your prayers and your patience as we navigate this situation,” the post read.
Storm reports from the National Weather Service office in Blacksburg indicated that outflow winds from a nearby thunderstorm knocked down two tents, and multiple injuries were reported.
Rocky Mount Mayor C. Holland Perdue also issued a statement to Fox News Digital addressing the incident.
“Our thoughts and prayers are with the members of Eastlake Community Church and everyone affected by today’s tent collapse during an outdoor service in Bedford County.”
“While details are still emerging, reports indicate that several individuals were injured and transported for medical treatment.
“We are praying for those who were hurt, for their families, and for the entire church community during this difficult time.”
Virginia Senator Mark Peake said in a post on X, “Our thoughts are with the entire Bedford community during this difficult time.”
The area in Moneta was not under any severe weather warnings Friday evening, according to the FOX Forecast Center.
