One killed and 22 worshippers injured after ‘burst of wind’ sends church tent flying

‘Suddenly the tent was gone’ The scene outside East Lake Community Church (Picture: Troy Keaton)

A pensioner has been killed and dozens more have been injured after a tent suddenly collapsed on worshippers at a church.

A freak storm broke out during an outdoor service to celebrate East Lake Community Church’s 20^th anniversary.

Strong wind, rain and lightning ripped through Moneta, Virginia, causing the large tent to give way at around 6.45pm on Friday.

One person died in the ‘chaotic’ incident and twenty-two people were injured, 11 of whom were rushed to hospital for their injuries.

The victim was named as church regular Bob Stouffer, 85, by the congregation.

Lead pastor Troy Keaton said the evening began with 30 minutes of opening music before the storm moved in quickly.

‘We recognised that a storm was coming. We sent the kids in and st...