Gen Hansard and Markéta Irglová of the Swell Season and their crew have issued a statement following a bizarre incident in which a man died at their show last night (Aug. 19) at Saratoga Mountain Winery, California.
The audience watched in horror when the man deliberately threw himself from the roof of a building near the lighting rig, according to local reports. Many in the audience were shaken and in tears.
"The band, crew and all involved with them are shocked and saddened by the unfortunate events of last night," said the band’s statement issued to Hot Press. "Their hearts go out to the victim and his friends and family."
The San Jose Mercury News reports that Hansard had just finished a song and was indulging in some banter with the crowd and guitar player when the man jumped.
"I saw him standing there on the edge of the roof, I thought it was a part of the act, and then he took off running and jumped, did a couple of flips and landed on the stage," audience member Kyle Rivers told the paper. "It was pretty traumatic."
Hansard put down his guitar and walked over to the man on the stage, while doctors in attendance attempted to revive him. Sheriff’s authorities and paramedics attended the scene. The audience realised he had died when his body was not moved following unsuccessful attempts to resuscitate the man.
Santa Clara County officials confirmed to the paper that an incident occurred at the venue but did not disclose details. However, various witnesses have posted details on Twitter.
"Swell Season at Mountain Winery was amazing until someone decided it was time 2 end their life & made an entire audience unwilling witnesses," wrote one audience member.
