Following the shooting at a campground during Beyond Wonderland that left two people dead and more injured, organizer Insomniac CEO Pasquale Rotella has issued a statement.
After the active shooter event at a campground outside the Gorge Amphitheatre during Beyond Wonderland that left at least two people dead and five or more injured, Pasquale Rotella, CEO of organizer Insomniac, has issued a statement.
“We extend our heartfelt thoughts and condolences to the family, friends, and loved ones of the victims. The loss of two lives, as well as the injuries sustained by others, is an incredibly heartbreaking tragedy,” writes Pasquale Rotella in a text image on Instagram.
“We know that the shooting took place in the furthest campground from The Gorge Amphitheatre, which is designated for overflow camping and located a half mile outside the perimeter of the main festival grounds. It is our understanding that the incident stemmed from an isolated situation that escalated, leading the assailant to flee the area. An officer-involved shooting then occurred to neutralize the threat.”
“The circumstances of how and why this incident occurred are under investigation,” he continues. “Many have questioned why the festival continued during and after the incident. We made the decision to keep the festival open at the request of law enforcement once it became evident that there was no ongoing threat to the safety of attendees.”
“This was also done to ensure that the majority of attendees stayed away from the campground area where the incident took place. Our staff worked in close coordination with local authorities to secure the area while also preserving it for investigators to conduct their work in a smaller, isolated section.”
Rotella thanked the Insomniac first responder team for their professionalism, care, and courage. He states he “cannot imagine being by the side of any other group when it comes to managing a situation as challenging as this one.”
“Throughout 30 years of organizing events, we have brought together millions of people without any incidents of this nature. I hold a profound love for our community and deeply value the principles that define our culture. This incident stands in stark contrast to everything we stand for — it goes against the spirit of unity, love, and respect that we strive to foster within our community,” his message concludes.
“Please take care of yourselves and continue spreading love and support to one another, especially during this difficult time.”
Despite the festival continuing the rest of that day, the second day was cancelled out of an abundance of caution. Saturday’s performances included Dillon Francis and Flosstradamus, while the Sunday lineup would have featured Afrojack and Marshmello.