Tragic weather conditions led to the collapse of an outdoor tent during a church service in Virginia on Friday evening, resulting in one fatality and multiple injuries.
Strong winds toppled the tent at EastLake Community Church in Moneta, Virginia, disrupting the service and causing chaos.
“First responders are on the scene aiding those affected. We ask for your prayers and patience as we manage this situation,” the church shared in a Facebook post.
The National Weather Service office in Blacksburg reported that gusty winds from a nearby thunderstorm brought down two tents, leading to several injuries.
Rocky Mount’s Mayor, C. Holland Perdue, conveyed his thoughts in a statement to foxnews.com:
“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.