Morbid Angel has paid tribute to Frederick Forest Livingston, Jr., the 50-year-old fan who was killed when the roof of the Apollo Theatre venue the band played in Belvidere, Illinois collapsed. Although the concert was sold out, the Belvidere Police Department said only 260 people were at the Apollo Theater on March 31 when the collapse occurred as a heavy storm rolled through the area. The capacity of the theater is around 1,500. Officials were notified by the National Weather Service of a tornado warning at 7:45 p.m. CT. The roof collapsed ten minutes later, according to Belvidere Fire Department chief Shawn Schadle. The band paid tribute to Fredrick in a post and his family has launched a GoFundMe to help with expenses. Livingston was attending the concert with his son Alex, who is said to be “OK”. Read the statements from Morbid Angel and the family, and please give to the GoFundMe if you can.
https://www.gofundme.com/f/fred-livingston-jr
It is with great sorrow that we have to share the unexpected passing of Fred Livingston Jr. On March 31st, a tragic event at the Apollo Theater in Belvidere, Illinois led to the loss of a great man. Fred was an amazing man that leaves behind his three sons, Alex, Fred III, and Shane, along with the rest of his family that cared about him deeply.
Our family still cannot comprehend this unexpected tragedy and we are asking for donations to help with the costs that come along with losing a family member. On behalf of our family, we greatly appreciate any support that can be offered to help get us through this tough time.
We hope to update you soon on more details for services to honor the life of a son, brother, father and grandpa who will be truly missed.
Livingston’s sister Deanna Hicks told ABC7 Chicago he was attending the concert at the theatre with his son Alex, who Hicks said is “OK.”
Officials were notified by the National Weather Service of a tornado warning at 7:45 p.m. CT. The roof collapsed ten minutes later, according to Belvidere Fire Department chief Shawn Schadle.
According to local reports, at least 20 ambulances were dispatched to the theater, which is located roughly 14 miles outside of the city of Rockford.
Photos and video taken at the venue show that the theater’s marquee and façade had crashed on to the street, with debris littering the area as first responders worked to help the injured.
Belvidere is located in Boone County, about 72 miles from Chicago.
The Apollo Theatre opened in 1921 as a stage play, movie, and vaudeville venue.