Madonna stage collapse

Brit killed after roof falls on crew ahead of the singer's French show

17 July 2009 - Two people have been killed after a stage collapsed in the build up to a Madonna concert.

Charles Prow, a 23-year-old from Headingley near Leeds, was among the dead after a partially built roof fell onto a crew of workers, bringing down a crane at the city's Velodrome stadium.

He died overnight at a hospital in Marseilles.

A French worker was also killed immediately in the accident which came ahead of the singer's planned concert on Sunday (19 July).

Eight other people were seriously hurt, including an American who was hospitalised and is in a life-threatening condition.

More than 30 people suffered minor injuries and shock, according to authorities.

In a statement on her website, Madonna said she was "devastated" by the news.

She added: "My prayers go out to those who were injured and their families along with my deepest sympathy to all those affected by this heart-breaking news."

"My prayers go out to their families along with my deepest sympathy to all those affected."  Madonna

Around 50 crew are believed to have been working on the set when the accident happened.

It is thought the victims were on the stage while the roof was being raised by four electric winches on metal columns at the corners of the stage, toppling one of them.

Police and prosecutors are now investigating the accident.

French work minister Xavier Darcos expressed his regret at the accident.

Fans who bought tickets for the cancelled gig will have their money refunded.

Damian Jones