A tragedy struck just days before global music star Shakira’s scheduled performance in Brazil, as a crew member died during preparations for the show on Copacabana Beach. The incident occurred on Sunday, April 26, while teams were assembling stage structures for the large-scale public event, as confirmed by multiple outlets, including Entertainment Weekly.
Organizers of the “Todo Mundo No Rio” concert confirmed the death in a statement shared on Instagram.
Getty“The event organizers confirm that an accident this Sunday afternoon (April 26) tragically claimed the life of a professional who was working on assembling the structures for the show,” the statement read.
The victim has been identified as Gabriel de Jesus Firmino, according to reports, including a comment on an official announcement.
Emergency Response Efforts Follow On-Site Accident
Emergency services were called to the scene shortly after the incident, where the worker received initial treatment before being taken to a nearby hospital.
“First responders provided initial care at the scene, and the Fire Department was immediately called to transport the patient. Unfortunately, the professional passed away at the hospital,” organizers said in a statement, as quoted by Rolling Stone.
Officials from the state fire brigade (CBMERJ) later confirmed that the worker had suffered serious injuries while operating equipment during the setup.
“A worker suffered crushing injuries to his lower limbs in a lifting system. Before the arrival of emergency teams, the victim had already been removed from the equipment by other employees present,” the brigade said in a statement shared with People magazine.
“Military personnel from the ambulance service of the 3rd Maritime Group (GMAR-Copacabana) immediately began pre-hospital care on the victim, who was then transported to the Miguel Couto Municipal Hospital. Despite the efforts of the rescue teams, death was confirmed.”
Witness Describes Chaotic Moments on Copacabana Beach
Witnesses on Copacabana Beach recalled how the mood quickly shifted as the incident unfolded, with concern spreading across the area.
Speaking to international outlet France24, a witness recalled the moment the situation unfolded.
“Out of nowhere, we saw people running, and when we looked, the structure was on the ground,” 51-year-old Antonio Marcos Ferreira dos Santos told the network.
“People were saying that a man had gotten trapped underneath. People rushed over to pull him out.”
Antonio Marcos Ferreira dos Santos, 51, who was nearby, told AFP that “out of nowhere [he] saw people running. And when we looked, the structure was on the ground.”
As per People, he added that “a man has gotten tapped underneath,” as those nearby moved quickly to help and attempted to “pull him out.”
Outpouring of Support for Victim’s Family as Safety Concerns Raised
Messages of support quickly followed, with many expressing grief and calling for stronger safety measures at large-scale events.
Several people emphasized the importance of better planning and protection for workers, noting that investing in safety is essential to prevent tragedies like this.
Others shared heartfelt condolences, with one writing, “Strength to the family and everyone who loved the professional, what a difficult moment 😢,” while another added, “Our condolences to family and friends ❤️ 🩹.”
Many also called for the worker to be honored during the show, reflecting on the role behind-the-scenes professionals play in bringing events to life.
“Every person, regardless of position, who makes this event happen, deserves our full respect and condolences. May God comfort the family,” one message read.
As tributes continued, the overall sentiment remained one of sadness and solidarity, with many urging greater care for workers while remembering the life lost.
Concert Expected to Draw Large Crowds Despite Tragedy
The upcoming concert, part of the “Todo Mundo no Rio” series, is expected to bring large crowds to Copacabana Beach, a venue known for hosting some of the city’s most widely attended public events.
Officials in Rio de Janeiro have confirmed that Shakira is set to headline the show, which in past years has drawn millions of spectators. “At this time, we are providing all support, comfort, and solidarity to the responsible company, its team, and the victim’s family,” organizers said, as quoted by E! News.
As preparations continue, the incident has cast a quiet shadow over the event, with focus now on supporting those affected and remembering the life that was lost.
Shakira has not commented on the tragedy yet.
