Stage Collapses; Four Fans Confirmed Dead During State Fair Concert

New York, NY (Top40 Charts) Authorities say they have confirmed at least four deaths after a stage collapsed during a storm at the Indiana State Fair, where Sugarland was set to perform.

Indiana State Police said the number of people hurt has risen to about 40, with their injuries ranging from minor to serious. The incident happened Saturday night at the fairgrounds in Indianapolis.

Strong winds caused the stage rigging for the outdoor concert to collapse, trapping and injuring concert-goers shortly before 9 p.m.

Witnesses say no one was performing at the time. Sara Bareilles (Sugarland's opener) had finished and the crowd was waiting for Sugarland to take the stage.

The collapse came as some fans were leaving to seek shelter. An evacuation had not yet been ordered and an official had just announced that they were still hoping to have Sugarland take the stage. According to one onlooker, it was mere moments after that when the stage collapsed.

WISH-TV Indianapolis said it could not be confirmed that a tornado hit the area, but winds in excess of 60 miles per hour were reported.

Sugarland posted the following on Twitter: "We are all right. We are praying for our fans, and the people of Indianapolis. We hope you'll join us. They need your strength."

As true testament to show just how horrifyingly quickly this tragedy occurred is Sugarland's most recent Tweet before this one: "Doors are open! If you're coming to see us @IndyStateFair, let's hear those song requests! (PS Don't forget to send #Sugarpics...)

In another Twitter message, Bareilles wrote, "I'm speechless and feel so helpless. Please send love and prayers to Indianapolis tonight. My heart aches for the lives lost." She tagged it "indyiloveu."

Countless country arists ranging from the Oak Ridge Boys to Dierks Bentley to Keith Urban and even the Opry itself are sending out messages of condolences via Twitter to all affected by the tragedy.