Shakira concert hit by tragedy as worker dies from ‘crushing injuries’ during stage construction
RIO DE JANEIRO, BRAZIL: Shakira’s upcoming ‘Todo Mundo No Rio’ concert in Rio, Brazil, took a tragic turn after a construction worker died in an accident while building the stage in Copacabana Beach on April 26, 2026.
The news of the worker’s demise was shared by event organizers in an official statement posted on social media. Meanwhile, The local fire brigade (CBMERJ) told People Magazine, that the crew member suffered “crushing injuries” and succumbed to his wounds.
The worker received initial care from first responders
According to the statement provided by organizers, “First responders provided initial care at the scene, and the Fire Department was immediately called to transport the patient.” Although the worker was taken to the hospital, he failed to survive.
“Unfortunately, the professional passed away at the hospital,” the statement translated from Portuguese read. “At this time, we are providing all support, comfort, and solidarity to the responsible company, its team, and the victim's family,” the note concluded.
Meanwhile, the local fire brigade confirmed to People that the worker suffered “crushing injuries to his lower limbs in a lifting system.” They also mentioned that the man was already removed from the equipment before first responders arrived.
“Military personnel from the ambulance service of the 3rd Maritime Group (GMAR-Copacabana) immediately began pre-hospital care on the victim, who was then transported to the Miguel Couto Municipal Hospital,” they said, adding, “despite the efforts of the rescue teams, death was confirmed.”
The tragic incident was also described by 51-year-old eyewitness Antonio Marcos Ferreira dos Santos. “Out of nowhere, we saw people running, and when we looked, the structure was on the ground,” he told AFP. “People were saying that a man had gotten trapped underneath. People rushed over to pull him out.”
Shakira is yet to publicly address the incident
At the time of writing, Shakira is yet to address the incident in public. However, the singer-songwriter previously took to Instagram to share her excitement about the upcoming show.
“Almost there, Rio!!!” she wrote on Instagram April 26. “Prepping so many surprises for you: guest artists, new wardrobe, songs you’ll love to hear… Can’t wait to be there… no altar do planeta!!” she added.
‘Todo Mundo no Rio’ (which translates to Everyone in Rio) is a major international concert series promoted by the City of Rio de Janeiro. It is designed to celebrate musical acts as well as promote tourism on Copacabana Beach in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. Shakira was announced as the headliner of the third edition of the event in February 2026 and is expected to draw a massive crowd.
