A man who was “working on building structures” for Shakira’s upcoming tour in Brazil died over the weekend from “compression death.”
Six days before the singer was due to perform at Todo Mundo no Rio, event organizers confirmed on Sunday the fatal accident that “tragically claimed the life of a professional.”
The concert’s official Instagram account said, “First responders provided initial treatment at the scene, and the fire department was immediately called to transport the patient. Unfortunately, the specialist passed away at the hospital.”
“At this time, we offer all support, comfort and solidarity to the responsible company, its team and the victim’s family,” the statement concluded.
In addition, the State Fire Marshal’s Office told People that the male employee “suffered severe injuries to his lower extremities from the lift system.”
The person was “removed from the equipment by other employees at the scene before emergency teams arrived.”
The statement confirmed that “military personnel from the Ambulance Service of the 3rd Maritime Group (GMAR-Copacabana) immediately began pre-hospital care of the victim, who was then transferred to the Miguel Couto Municipal Hospital. Despite the efforts of the rescue team, he was pronounced dead.”
Witness Antonio Marcos Ferreira dos Santos said the victim was “trapped” under the structure, which had fallen “to the ground.”
The beachgoer (via France24) said that while individuals were working to “pull” the man up, “out of nowhere (he) saw people running.”
Shakira’s representatives did not immediately respond to Page Six’s request for comment.
The 49-year-old singer has been named the headliner for Todo Mundo no Rio, a free outdoor concert to be held at Rio de Janeiro’s Copacabana Beach in February.
The show will be held on May 2nd.
Shakira spoke passionately about her upcoming performance on Instagram on Saturday.
“It’s almost here, Rio!!” the Grammy winner captioned a sultry snap of himself shirtless and fan-covered.
“We have lots of surprises in store, including guest artists, new wardrobes, and songs you’ll want to listen to,” she added. “I can’t wait to get there.”
