J. Cole has cancelled a show in California following the death of a member of his touring crew.
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The gig was meant to take place at the Golden 1 Center in Sacramento last night (Thursday August 27), but was cancelled just hours before doors opened.
On the venue’s social media pages, it was confirmed that the last-minute decision was made as a member of the rapper’s crew was killed in an incident earlier that morning. Local reports claim that he was driving a semi-truck, which veered off the highway and overturned.
The vehicle was travelling with equipment from the previous night’s show at Seattle’s Climate Pledge Arena, and local authorities share that the crew member died at the scene.
The victim was named as 66-year-old Jarlath Parkinson, from South Carolina, by Yolo County Coroner’s Office.
In a statement, Sgt. David Barker of the California Highway Patrol stated (via CBS News): “It’s unknown at this time, may have been a distraction or fell asleep. Unfortunately, the solo occupant did not survive the crash.”
The venue in Sacramento shared an update announcing the show cancellation, writing: “Following the tragic passing of a member of the touring crew in a trucking accident this morning, J. Cole’s performance at Golden 1 Center in Sacramento tonight, August 27, has been cancelled.
“Our thoughts are with the crew member’s family and loved ones during this incredibly difficult time.”
Those who had tickets for the gig will receive refunds automatically, and those who got tickets through third-party resellers are encouraged to get in touch with those who they purchased the tickets from.
The J. Cole tour, celebrating the release of his latest album ‘The Fall Off’, is set to continue in Oakland over the weekend (August 29 and 30), before heading to LA next week.
From there, the tour will come to the UK and Europe in October, and include two stops at The O2 in London.
The post J. Cole cancels gig after touring crew member’s death appeared first on NME.
