CONCERT PERIL
Storm slams 14 on line for Backstreet Boys
Fourteen people standing in line for a Backstreet Boys concert in Oklahoma were injured during a storm on Saturday night.
Fans had been warned to evacuate the area before the storm hit at the WinStar Casino and Resort in Thackerville, but many remained. The storm knocked over the concert entrance trusses with 70-80 mile per hour winds and heavy rain, casino officials said in a statement.
“All patrons in the area were asked to move and to seek shelter from the storm,” the casino said in a statement. “However, about 150 patrons who were standing in line for the Backstreet Boys concert did not heed staff 's warnings.”
Fourteen fans were hospitalized, and at least two people were released later Saturday. The concert, which was also expected to feature the band 98 Degrees, was later postponed.
“We never want to put our fans in harm's way and with tonight's weather and the injuries from earlier, we have decided to cancel the show and will attempt to reschedule,” the Backstreet Boys said on Twitter. “The most important thing is for everyone to get home safely and we will see you all very soon!”
Band member Kevin Richardson tweeted that the group had been expecting a soldout house of 12,000.
“Waiting and praying for our fans that were injured,” lead singer Nick Carter tweeted Saturday night. “If we can perform, we're ready to go. But safety is first.”
It was set to be the Backstreet Boys' final show before the group begins a run at Planet Hollywood in Las Vegas later this year, according to ABC News.