Sheila E. criticized festival organizers following the death of Shari Sanders at the Carson Jazz Festival. Sanders’ body reportedly remained in the crowd until after Sheila’s performance. The musician expressed heartbreak over the incident, which occurred amidst high temperatures in Southern California.
On social media, Sheila shared details of the tragic event. Sanders died either during or before her performance. The situation was devastating for Sheila, who has never experienced anything similar in her career.
The temperatures at the festival exceeded 100 degrees. Sheila noted that when they arrived at 7:30 a.m., people were already lined up, waiting to enter. The organizers decided to open the grounds 30 minutes early due to the crowd.
Emergency crews were actively moving through the crowd. Sheila’s band waited for their set while observing the situation from their dressing room. They assumed that some people might be dehydrated due to the heat.
Sheila explained that the festival faced production issues. They did not get a sound check, and everything was delayed. As they waited for the next band to perform, things suddenly stopped.
The lady, Shari Sanders, was reportedly saving seats for her family when someone noticed her slumped over.
Bystanders asked Sanders if she was okay, receiving no response. Paramedics arrived about 20 minutes later, but Sanders had already passed away. Sheila expressed sorrow over the tragic event.
Sheila learned there were limited hydration stations at the venue. She urged Carson City to improve safety measures at future events. Despite the city’s claims of holding successful events for 40 years, Sheila emphasized the need for better planning.
During her performance, Sheila dedicated the show to Sanders and her family. They held a moment of silence in her honor. She was shocked to learn later that Sanders’ body was not removed until after the performance ended.
Sheila criticized the festival for continuing to operate in such circumstances. She stated she would not have performed had she known Sanders’ body was still present. Her heartfelt condolences were extended to Sanders’ family.
In response, Mayor Lula Davis-Holmes expressed condolences to the family affected by the tragedy. She urged the community to offer support and prayers during this difficult time.