BEDFORD COUNTY, Va. – 9:16 p.m. Update:
Bedford County Fire & Rescue officials have confirmed that there has been one fatality, and 22 people have been hospitalized after a tent collapse at EastLake Community Church Friday night. Officials tell 10 News that 11 people have been released.
9 p.m UPDATE:
Delegate Sam Rasoul issued a statement on his socials Friday evening; in the statement, Del. Rasoul confirmed that there is at least one fatality as of 9 p.m. Friday:
Unfortunately a terrible tragedy has struck a local church as the storm that just hit, knocked down a large tent with hundreds beneath it. Sadly many casualties and at least one fatality reported thus far.
Del. Sam Rasoul
9 p.m. UPDATE:
Rocky Mount Mayor Holland Perdue issued the following statement:
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.
I am grateful for the swift response of firefighters, EMS personnel, law enforcement officers, medical teams, and all first responders who quickly answered the call and provided care when it was needed most. Their professionalism and dedication make a difference in moments like these.
Incidents like this remind us how quickly circumstances can change and how important it is for communities to come together to support one another. Please join me in keeping everyone impacted in your thoughts and prayers and in wishing those who were injured a full and speedy recovery.
We will continue to keep the Eastlake Community Church family and the Bedford County community in our prayers as more information becomes available.
Holland Perdue
8:40 p.m. UPDATE:
Carilion Clinic has said in a statement to 10 News Friday evening that they are aware of the incident in Bedford and are coordinating closely with first responders and community partners to provide support as needed.
10 News is on the scene and will continue to update this story with information as it becomes available.
UPDATE 7:58 P.M.
Virginia State Senator Mark Peake has released the following statement:
“I am saddened to hear of the tragedy at EastLake Community Church this evening. As details continue to emerge, please join me in praying for the church family, first responders, and everyone impacted. Our thoughts are with the entire Bedford community during this difficult time.”
VA Senator Mark Peake
A tent has collapsed at EastLake Community Church according to the Bedford County Public Information Officer, Shelley Basinger. Multiple injuries have been reported.
EastLake Community Church has also released this statement on their Facebook page:
“During our service tonight, a severe weather incident caused a failure of an outdoor tent. First responders are on site providing care to those in need. We would appreciate your prayers and your patience as we navigate this situation.
We are trusting in the Lord for his care, strength, and help."
EastLake Community Church
We will continue to update you as we learn more information.