06/13/2026
•Mass Casualty Incident•
June 12, 2026- At approximately 6:45 p.m., a large tent collapsed during an outdoor service at East Lake Community Church, injuring multiple people and resulting in one fatality.
Prior to the collapse, a severe storm cell moved through the area, bringing heavy rain, lightning, and strong winds. The weather conditions caused the tent structure to fail.
Company 8 (Moneta) units were on scene when the collapse occurred and immediately began rescue efforts. A mass casualty incident was declared initially, bringing units from Bedford, Franklin, Roanoke City, Roanoke County, and Botetourt.
Rescue 1 (w/six) and Utility 1 (w/two) responded and assisted with triage and patient care. The storm and related lightning strikes caused over a dozen calls across the county within a twenty minute time period, sending Wagon 1 (w/four) to Company 5’s area for a reported house fire, Brush 1 (w/four) to a wires down call in Goode, and Engine 1 (w/four) to Valley View Drive for power lines arching.
Eleven individuals were transported to local hospitals by ambulance, while eleven others were treated at the scene for minor injuries. One person died at the scene of the collapse.
We extend our condolences to the East Lake Church community during this difficult time.
