Shakira Speaks Out After Fatal Accident at Rio Concert Site

Shakira has issued a statement expressing condolences following the death of a crew member involved in the construction of her upcoming concert in Rio de Janeiro, after a structural accident at the event site over the weekend.

The incident occurred on April 26 at Copacabana Beach, where preparations were underway for Shakira’s scheduled performance on May 2 as part of the “Todo Mundo no Rio” concert series. Organizers confirmed that the worker, identified as Gabriel de Jesus Firmino, died after sustaining injuries during the collapse of part of the stage structure.

In a statement provided on April 27, Shakira acknowledged the tragedy and extended her support to those affected. She said she was “deeply saddened” by the incident and offered condolences to the victim’s family, friends, and colleagues. “My heart goes out to his family and loved ones,” the singer added.

Event organizers also released a statement outlining the circumstances surrounding the accident. According to their account, emergency responders were called immediately after the collapse and provided initial medical assistance at the scene before transporting the worker to a hospital. Despite those efforts, the individual later died from his injuries.

“An accident this Sunday afternoon tragically claimed the life of a professional who was working on the assembly of the show’s structures,” organizers said in a translated statement. They added that support was being extended to the worker’s family, as well as to the company responsible for the construction team.

Eyewitness reports suggest the collapse happened suddenly, prompting immediate concern among those nearby. One witness, speaking to France24, described seeing people running toward the scene as the structure fell. According to the account, bystanders quickly attempted to assist the worker, who had reportedly become trapped under the debris.

Additional reporting indicated that the injuries sustained in the collapse were severe. Reuters reported that the worker’s lower limbs were crushed during the incident, though officials have not publicly released a full medical report.

The accident has raised questions about safety conditions during large-scale event construction, particularly for high-profile outdoor performances that require complex staging and infrastructure. Authorities have not yet provided detailed findings regarding the cause of the collapse, and it remains unclear whether a formal investigation will be launched.

Shakira’s upcoming performance is expected to draw a massive audience as part of the “Todo Mundo no Rio” initiative, a series of free concerts designed to bring major international acts to the city. Previous editions of the event have featured artists such as Lady Gaga and Madonna, and have attracted large crowds.

The Colombian singer’s participation in this year’s lineup was announced earlier in 2026, with organizers anticipating attendance in the millions. The event is positioned as a major cultural attraction for Rio de Janeiro, contributing to tourism and public engagement with live music.

Earlier this year, the singer staged a free concert in Mexico City that drew an estimated 400,000 attendees. Her latest album, Las Mujeres Ya No Lloran, released in 2024, has supported her return to large-scale live performances.