Early evening of horror: piece of metal injures concert goers in Gelsenkirchen

Early evening of horror: piece of metal injures concert goers in Gelsenkirchen

On Friday evening, an unfortunate incident occurred during an impressive concert by Bruce Springsteen at the FC Schalke 04 stadium in Gelsenkirchen. A falling piece of metal from the video cube injured three concertgoers, including a 50-year-old woman from Erlangen, a 48-year-old man from Warendorf and a 22-year-old young lady from Koblenz. The exact severity of the injuries is still unclear, but all those affected were immediately taken to the hospital to receive medical care, as BR24 reports.

The metal part, which was approximately 1.30 meters long and weighed several kilograms, came loose from the inner corner of the video cube and fell to the floor during the concert. The police have seized the metal part and are now checking whether there is any further danger to spectators. In this context, she is in close contact with the organizer and FC Schalke 04. The safety of the spectators has top priority in such situations.

Protective measures at major events

This incident also sheds light on security precautions at major events. According to Spiegel, such serious security incidents are fortunately rare, but it is crucial that organizers and municipalities work well together. In North Rhine-Westphalia, this is supported by an orientation framework that was published in 2012 and later revised. This comprehensive plan aims to optimize the planning, approval, implementation and follow-up of events, especially those with increased risk potential, according to [IM NRW](https://www.im.nrw/themen/gehenverkehr/sicherheit-vor-ort/sicherheit-bei- events).

A structured approach should ensure that security concepts are drawn up in a timely manner and that all necessary measures are taken into account. It is also important to systematically follow up on events to continuously improve safety standards. Designating a central point of contact for security issues has proven to be extremely helpful. This means that organizers have a single point of contact and can contact the responsible authorities in the local government directly.

However, the shock of the incident should not diminish the enjoyment of the concert. Springsteen, who gave his third and final concert in Germany on his European tour this evening, once again showed why he is considered one of the greatest musicians of our time. The fans were eagerly awaiting his return and hopefully the negatives will soon be overcome. Nevertheless, it remains to be hoped that the police investigations and the cooperation of all those involved can make future events safer.