Carson, Calif. – On Saturday, renowned musician Sheila E. took to social media to condemn the handling of a tragic death that occurred during the Carson Jazz Festival. The 71‑year‑old percussionist said she was “heartbroken” after learning that concert‑goer Shari Sanders died on the festival grounds and that her body was not removed until after the band finished performing.
Heat and Lack of Hydration Highlighted
Sheila E. described the day as “very hot,” with temperatures soaring above 100 degrees Fahrenheit. She noted that attendees had been waiting in line since early morning, and that the festival opened its gates 30 minutes ahead of schedule, leaving many people standing in the scorching sun for hours.
According to the performer, emergency crews were seen “going through the crowds like crazy,” but the lack of sufficient hydration stations throughout the venue contributed to the danger. “We heard there was minimal access to hydration stations,” she said, urging organizers to prioritize water availability at future events.
Calls for Accountability and Better Planning
Sheila E. recounted that she and her band paused their set after the first song to dedicate the performance to Sanders and her family, observing a moment of silence. She expressed frustration that the festival continued while the deceased woman’s body remained on site, stating, “It is uncalled for. I would have never gotten on stage if I had known her body was still there with her family surrounding her.”
Mayor Lula Davis‑Holmes issued a statement expressing the city’s sorrow, writing, “Hearts are heavy following the tragic loss of a life at our community event. I have personally reached out to the family and ask our entire community to keep them in your prayers, surrounding them with strength, comfort, and peace during this unimaginable moment.” The mayor’s office was contacted for comment on the incident and the city’s response.
Community Response and Next Steps
Local residents and festival attendees voiced concerns on social media, calling for improved safety protocols, better crowd management, and more robust emergency medical services at large outdoor gatherings. Many highlighted the need for clear signage directing attendees to water stations and shaded areas, especially during extreme heat.
Sheila E. emphasized that the tragedy underscores a broader responsibility for event organizers to protect the well‑being of families and community members who gather to celebrate music and culture. “We need to do better,” she said, urging both the festival promoters and city officials to review and strengthen safety measures.
The Carson Jazz Festival has not yet released an official response regarding the incident or any planned changes to its operations. As the community mourns the loss of Shari Sanders, local leaders are expected to convene a review of festival safety standards to prevent similar tragedies in the future.
Original reporting: Fox News (HLL/CB) — read the source article.
