Tent Collapse at Virginia Church Anniversary Kills One, Injures 22
A large event tent at EastLake Community Church in Moneta, Virginia, collapsed during a severe thunderstorm on June 12, 2026, killing one person and injuring 22 others. The church was celebrating its 20th anniversary when the storm struck. The victim was identified as Bob Stouffer, a founding member of the congregation.
<p>A tent collapsed at EastLake Community Church in Moneta, Virginia, on the evening of June 12, 2026, killing one person and injuring 22 others. The church was holding an outdoor celebration for its 20th anniversary when a severe thunderstorm moved through the area.</p>
<p>The victim was Bob Stouffer, a founding member of the church who had traveled from Pennsylvania specifically for the anniversary event. He was a close friend of the church's senior pastor, Troy Keaton.</p>
<p>Pastor Keaton said he had just walked onto the stage to tell attendees to move to their vehicles when a sudden gust of wind struck the tent. The structure, which was designed to hold approximately 1,500 people, collapsed within seconds.</p>
<p>Of the 22 injured, 11 were transported to local hospitals. The remaining 11 received treatment for minor injuries at the scene. Bedford County officials classified the incident as a mass casualty event.</p>
<p>First responders from the Moneta Volunteer Fire Department were already on-site for the event and began rescue efforts immediately. The tent had been inspected by the Bedford County building inspections division three days before the event and was found to meet required safety standards.</p>
<p>Virginia Governor Abigail Spanberger expressed condolences and said her team was coordinating with local responders. Authorities are gathering evidence to investigate the cause of the collapse.</p>
