At least one person was killed and dozens were injured Friday night when the roof of a concert hall collapsed in Belvidere, Illinois, amid severe weather, officials said.
Of the 28 people taken to the hospital, five were seriously injured, Belvidere fire officials said.
Belvidere Fire Chief Shawn Schadle said 260 people were inside the Apollo Theater when the roof and front awning collapsed.
The Belvidere Police Department said the collapse was caused by heavy storms in the area, and calls from the theater began at 7:48 p.m. Initial estimates said a tornado caused damage.
Governor JP Pritzker said He was monitoring the situation in the city, 80 miles northwest of Chicago.
“I have been in touch with the authorities for updates and to run whatever resources we can,” he said He tweeted that.
Metal band Morbid Angel was among the night’s scheduled entertainment, but it’s unclear if anyone took the stage before collapsing. A representative for the band did not immediately respond to a request for comment.
The monster storm system caused roof collapses, and created deadly tornadoes that ripped apart homes and shopping centers in Arkansas. Much of the Midwest and South is at risk for severe weather on Friday.
See this graphic at nbcnews.com
