Radiohead Mourns Death of Drum Tech in Toronto Stage Collapse

Thom Yorke and company say they are devastated by the loss of a key crew member in a horrible accident that occurred hours before last Saturday night's show in Toronto

By Josh Grossberg Jun 18, 2012 3:05 PMTags
Thom Yorke, Radiohead Kevin Mazur/Wireimage

Radiohead is in mourning.

The alt-rock legends released a statement on their website saying they are "shattered" by the tragic death of their drum technician, Scott Johnson, who died on Saturday in a stage collapse in Toronto just as crews were setting up for their sold-out show that night at Downsview Park.

"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 valuable member of our great road crew," wrote Radiohead's drummer, Philip Selway.

The U.K.-born Johnson, 33, was unable to flee in time to avoid metal scaffolding that tumbled 50 feet to the ground, trapping him amid the wreckage. Rescue workers and paramedics responded immediately but were unable to save him.

A 45-year-old man sustained a head injury and was taken to a local hospital but is expected to recover, said Toronto Police spokesman Tony Vella, while two other people were treated for minor injuries at the scene and released.

Following the accident, the band canceled the gig, citing "unforeseen circumstances," and advised fans not to come to the venue. Toronto investigators are now probing the cause, but this is expected to take time given the complexities engineers and inspectors face in figuring out how the massive metalworks gave way.

Before hooking up with Radiohead, Johnson also served as the drum tech touring the world with such British bands as Keane and White Lies.

It's unclear whether the group will be able to reschedule their Toronto concert. Refunds are being given at points of purchase.

Nor is there word whether Johnson's death will affect upcoming tour dates. The Canadian city was the last North American stop for Radiohead, which is due to kick off the European leg of their global trek in Rome on June 30.