Coachella worker dies after falling at festival site
A worker died Saturday morning while setting up in the staging area at Coachella Music & Arts Festival in Indio, California, authorities said. Police responded to the festival site around 9:30 a.m. local time Saturday.
Benjamin Guitron of the Indio Police Department told CBS News a person working in the staging area of the concert grounds fell to their death at the scene. Guitron said he was unsure if the worker was secured to the scaffolding.
The Riverside County Coroner's office and Occupational Safety and Health Administration are investigating the incident. TMZ first reported news of the worker's death.
Goldenvoice, the company who organizes the festival, confirmed his death in a statement to CBS News.
"Our friend fell while working on a festival stage," Goldenvoice said in a statement. "He has been with our team for twenty years in the desert and was doing what he loved. He was a hard-working and loving person that cared deeply about his team. As our lead rigger, he was responsible for the countless incredible shows that have been put on at the festival. We will miss him dearly."
The first weekend of the festival kicks off on April 12. The second weekend begins April 19.