Tent collapses during outdoor church service, killing 1 and injuring 22

MONETA, Va. (WDBJ/Gray News) - One person is dead after a tent collapsed during an outdoor church service, officials said.

Multiple people were injured after the tent collapsed at EastLake Community Church during an outdoor service on Friday, according to Bedford County Fire and Rescue Deputy Chief Abbey Johnston.

Crews responded just after 6:45 p.m. Johnston said 11 people were taken to a hospital, and 11 others were treated and released on the scene.

Prior to the collapse, a severe storm cell moved through the area, bringing heavy rain, lightning and strong winds. Officials say 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.

The incident is still being investigated.

Emergency personnel and resources from neighboring localities responded to assist at the scene, including Moneta Volunteer Fire Department, Roanoke County, Franklin County, the City of Roanoke, and the City of Lynchburg.