A tragic accident struck one of Latin America's most prominent music festivals, AXE Ceremonia, over the weekend, where K-pop group Tomorrow X Together (TXT) had been scheduled to perform. A structural collapse at the festival site in Mexico City claimed the lives of two individuals, both reportedly photographers covering the event.
According to Mexican media outlet El Financiero, the incident occurred at Parque Bicentenario when a crane, not previously present during safety inspections on April 4, suddenly collapsed. The victims were crushed beneath the falling structure. Despite the severity of the accident, reports indicate that the festival organizers did not immediately halt the event or notify performers, drawing criticism from the public and press alike.
Following the accident, the festival’s remaining schedule, including the April 6 performances, was fully canceled.
TXT, who had made headlines as the first-ever K-pop act to participate in AXE Ceremonia, issued a heartfelt message of condolence via their official channels on April 7.
"We are deeply saddened by the tragic accident that occurred during the festival. We offer our sincerest condolences to the deceased, and our hearts go out to their family, friends, and colleagues during this difficult time."
The group, managed by BigHit Music, had been invited as a landmark act in the globally diverse festival, which annually features a lineup spanning Latin, hip-hop, rock, EDM, and indie music. Their presence at AXE Ceremonia was celebrated as a significant moment for K-pop’s expansion into Latin America.
Mexican authorities have launched a full investigation into the cause of the collapse and are reviewing safety protocols and potential negligence. With festival organizers under scrutiny, questions remain about why the performance continued despite a fatal incident occurring onsite.
Fans and fellow artists have since taken to social media to express their shock and sorrow, with many calling for greater accountability and stronger safety measures at international music events.