Several Beyoncé fans were hurt after a sudden panic caused a stampede at a train station following her latest concert in Atlanta, according to a report by the New York Post.
The incident happened early Tuesday morning after Beyoncé finished her “Cowboy Carter” tour show at Mercedes-Benz Stadium. Videos from the scene showed injured fans being taken away in ambulances. Some were moved on stretchers, while others were treated in wheelchairs. Interestingly, some of the injured fans were still wearing cowboy hats.
What Caused the Stampede
According to officials who spoke to Atlanta News First, chaos started when a passenger began shouting and running frantically. At that time, fans were leaving the stadium and heading towards Vine City MARTA station. This sudden panic led to people rushing towards the escalator.
Eyewitness Shares Details
An eyewitness told Fox 5 that the situation turned dangerous when the escalator sped up unexpectedly and then came to a sudden stop. This caused people to get stuck together as others fell on top of them. “Smashed together,” the witness said, describing the chaotic moment.
Injuries and Medical Response
Officials confirmed that seven people were taken to the hospital with bruises and scratches. One person also suffered an ankle injury. Paramedics treated the injured on the spot before moving them for further care.
Officials Respond and Investigate
Authorities have not yet explained what caused the escalator to malfunction. The incident happened shortly after midnight, right after Beyoncé’s final Atlanta concert.
In a statement to The New York Post, the Metropolitan Atlanta Rapid Transit Authority (MARTA) said, “The escalator has been barricaded, and escalator manufacturer Schindler and MARTA Safety will investigate.”
Local police also shared their findings. According to reports, police said, “Responding officers determined that an escalator had suddenly stopped, resulting in several patrons falling onto one another.”
Investigations into the exact cause of the incident are still ongoing.
Another Trouble for Beyoncé’s Team
Interestingly, this scary incident happened shortly after another problem for Beyoncé’s team in Atlanta. Just days before, someone reportedly stole an SUV belonging to a crew member. That stolen vehicle reportedly contained some of Beyoncé’s unreleased music tracks.
