In a tragic turn of events, the Brazilian company Time4Fun, responsible for organizing Taylor Swift’s shows in Rio de Janeiro, is under investigation by the local police after a fan’s death and numerous reports of unbearable conditions during the Eras Tour.
The incident occurred amid an extreme heat wave, raising concerns about the safety and well-being of concertgoers.
Rio Police Launch Investigation
The Civil Police Department of Rio de Janeiro confirmed on Wednesday that an investigation has been initiated into Time4Fun for “the crime of endangering the life and health” of attendees.
A spokesperson stated that event organizers would be summoned to testify, and further steps are being taken to delve into the circumstances surrounding the incident. Time4Fun has not yet responded to requests for comment.
Last week, 23-year-old Ana Clara Benevides Machado tragically lost her life during Friday night’s concert. The event took place amid a record-breaking heat wave, with temperatures in the stadium reaching a scorching heat index of 138 degrees Fahrenheit.
Swift decided to postpone the Saturday night show due to the extreme conditions.
Concertgoers reported oppressive heat within the stadium and limited access to water. Some fans even fainted during the event, prompting concerns about the adequacy of safety measures in place.
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Swift Concert Organizer Under Investigation Amid Tragedy
The police department clarified that the investigation is not directly linked to Machado’s death. The Rio Municipal Health Department revealed that Machado passed out during the second song of Swift’s set, leading to cardiorespiratory arrest.
However, the exact cause of her death is yet to be determined.
Swift’s devoted fanbase, known as Swifties, took to social media to express their grief and demand accountability.
The hashtag #T4FEXIGIMOSRESPEITO (T4F WE DEMAND RESPECT) trended as fans urged Time4Fun to ensure better conditions for concertgoers, particularly access to water.
The global pop sensation expressed her sorrow over Machado’s death in an Instagram story after the show, stating that she was “overwhelmed by grief.”
Swift’s acknowledgment of the tragedy further intensified the scrutiny on Time4Fun and the overall safety protocols in place during the concert.
Time4Fun, in response to the outcry, announced on social media that fans would be allowed to bring water bottles and some sealed foods to the next two performances.
This move is seen as an attempt to address the concerns raised by Swifties. The company is now facing heightened scrutiny and is expected to implement enhanced safety measures for the remaining shows, including those scheduled in São Paulo.
As the investigation unfolds, questions about the adequacy of safety measures, particularly in extreme weather conditions, have come to the forefront.
The tragic incident has prompted a broader discussion about the responsibility of event organizers in ensuring the well-being of attendees.
As the authorities delve into the details, the outcome of the investigation will likely have lasting implications for concert safety standards in Brazil and beyond.
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