(Moneta, VA)—On Friday, June 12, 2026, at approximately 6:45 p.m., a large tent collapsed during an outdoor service at EastLake Community Church, injuring multiple people and resulting in one fatality.

Eleven individuals were transported to local hospitals by ambulance, while eleven others were treated at the scene for minor injuries. One person died at the scene of the collapse.

Prior to the collapse, a severe storm cell moved through the area, bringing heavy rain, lightning, and strong winds. The weather conditions caused the tent structure to fail.

The tent had passed an inspection conducted by the Bedford County Division of Building Inspections on Tuesday, June 9, 2026.

Bedford 911 Emergency Communications received the initial report and classified the incident as a mass casualty event. First responders from Moneta Volunteer Fire Department were on scene for the event and were able to immediately begin rescue efforts. Emergency personnel and resources from neighboring localities responded to assist at the scene.