Tent Collapse at Virginia Church Kills 1, Injures 22
The tragedy unfolded at East Lake Community Church in Moneta, Virginia, during a milestone celebration marking the congregation's 20th anniversary, media reported.
Bedford County authorities confirmed one fatality at the scene. Of the 22 injured, 11 were rushed to nearby hospitals while the remaining 11 received on-site treatment for minor injuries.
Officials designated the incident a mass casualty event.
Church Pastor Troy Keaton said worshippers had gathered beneath the tent when weather conditions deteriorated without warning.
"Our church family suffered a great tragedy tonight after an outdoor tent collapsed during a celebration service for our 20th anniversary," media quoted Keaton as saying.
"Just as I had walked to the stage to release people to their cars, a burst of wind picked up the tent," he added.
Keaton further confirmed that "one of our dear brothers suffered a fatal injury."
County officials said a severe storm cell swept through the area moments before the collapse, unleashing heavy rain, lightning, and powerful winds that caused the tent structure to fail.
Authorities noted that the tent had passed a safety inspection conducted by the Bedford County Division of Building Inspections earlier in the week.
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