In 'grief and shock,' Radiohead delays tour dates

Reuters

The stage at Downsview Park in Toronto is shown in this combination photograph before (top) and after it collapsed on Saturday, June 16, 2012.

By Rolling Stone

Radiohead released a statement Thursday regarding the stage collapse before the group's recent Toronto show that took the life of drum technician Scott Johnson and injured three other crew members. ?The statement notes that the collapse destroyed much of the group's elaborate light show and stage set-up, parts of which are decades old and will take time to replace, forcing them to postpone seven upcoming European tour dates.

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"Whilst we all are dealing with the grief and shock ensuing from this terrible accident there are also many practical considerations to deal with," the statement read before listing upcoming shows in Italy, Germany, and Switzerland that will be postponed. The band plans to announce the new dates on June 27th, and they will also offer information for fans who will be unable to attend the rescheduled shows and will be seeking refunds.

"We will make every effort to offer the fans the very best show possible under the circumstances -- thanks for your understanding and support," the statement closed.

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Along with the rescheduled dates, it was reported on Tuesday that the Canadian Ministry of Labour identified four companies as being directly responsible for the stage collapse, including Radiohead's own Ticker Tape Touring LLP, as well as Toronto-based Optex Staging and Services, Nasco Staffing Solutions and concert promoter Live Nation.

The number of companies involved in putting on the show, however, has made the investigation a bit complex. "We?re still trying to figure out who owns what, who?s responsible for what," Ministry spokesperson Matt Blajer told the Toronto Star. "You?ve got lighting technicians, sound technicians, the band?s people -- we?re trying to figure out who worked for whom."

On Sunday, following the tragic events at Downsview Park, Radiohead drummer Phil Selway wrote on the band's website: "We have all been shattered by the loss of Scott Johnson, our friend and colleague. He was a lovely man, always positive, supportive and funny; a highly skilled and valued member of our great road crew. We will miss him very much. Our thoughts and love are with Scott's family and all those close to him."

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