Brussels – Belgian authorities announced Saturday the initiation of an investigation into the death of a 35-year-old woman who fell ill at the Tomorrowland festival on Friday evening. The circumstances surrounding her death remain unclear. Initial reports indicate that despite resuscitation attempts, she could not be revived, reports 24brussels.
The Public Prosecution Office in Antwerp confirmed they are examining the case of the woman, who was among the tens of thousands attending the festival’s first night.
Emergency Response and Details
Festival organizers later confirmed that the deceased was Canadian. “She received first aid and was then transferred to the University Hospital of Antwerp,” stated spokesperson Debby Wilmsen. “We were informed she passed away there. Our condolences go out to her family and friends. The Antwerp prosecutor’s office is investigating the cause of death and will update further on this matter.”
Tomorrowland, celebrated as one of the world’s largest electronic music festivals, draws approximately 400,000 attendees from various countries over its two weekends in Boom, Belgium. This year’s edition features renowned DJs such as David Guetta and Charlotte de Witte, among others.
Previous Festival Incidents
The festival faced controversy earlier in the week when its main stage was severely damaged by fire, prompting concerns about the event’s continuation. However, festival organizers quickly implemented an alternative setup to minimize disruptions.
Historical Context
A similar tragedy occurred during the 2019 Tomorrowland festival when a 27-year-old man from India collapsed and was subsequently pronounced dead at the hospital. He had been transported to Antwerp University Hospital, where resuscitation efforts were unsuccessful. An autopsy was conducted, and reports indicated that he was one of four festival attendees admitted to intensive care.
