Tragedy struck Riot Fest 2024 on September 22, and the incident is sparking some conversations online. 58-year-old Stephen Shult suffered a medical emergency at the Chicago-based rock music festival. Sadly, Shult passed away just a few days ago as a result of the injuries sustained at the event.
According to reports, the Arlington Heights native allegedly suffered from a head injury during a “mosh pit” incident that occurred at metal band Slayer’s set. Shortly after the incident, Shult was taken to a local hospital with head trauma. Doctors performed a craniotomy to treat a brain bleed, but Shult unfortunately passed away on October 3.
Shult’s family has spoken out and believes that he may have suffered the fatal injury after being separated from his daughter and a number of other friends during the performance. However, the organizers behind the famed rock music festival claim that Shult actually sustained the injury before Slayer even performed.
The festival organizers behind Riot Fest 2024 released a statement following Shult’s death. They offered condolences to Shult’s loved ones. They also noted that the “health, safety, and well-being” of attendees is of their highest priority.