Taylor cancels 'Eras Tour' Vienna concerts after terrorist attack threat
American pop star Taylor Swift has canceled her upcoming Eras Tour concerts in Vienna, Austria, following a confirmed terrorist threat targeting the events. The shows were slated to be held at Ernst-Happel-Stadion on Thursday, Friday, and Saturday. The decision was announced by Austrian concert promoter Barracuda Music after two suspects were arrested in connection with the planned attack.
Concert promoter cites safety concerns for cancellation
Barracuda Music released a statement saying, "Taylor Swift The Eras Tour Vienna shows canceled due to government officials' confirmation of planned terrorist attack." It further clarified, "With confirmation from government officials of a planned terrorist attack at Ernst Happel Stadium, we have no choice but to cancel the three scheduled shows for everyone's safety." "All tickets will be automatically refunded within the next 10 business days."
Two suspects arrested in connection with planned attack
Two suspects, including a 19-year-old, were arrested on Wednesday in connection with the planned attack. According to Franz Ruf, Director-General for Public Safety in the Ministry of the Interior, one suspect was detained in the morning while the other was apprehended in the afternoon. NBC News reported that one of the suspects allegedly pledged allegiance to ISIS and both were radicalized online.
Concerts were initially supposed to proceed with heightened security
Despite the arrests, officials initially assured that Swift's concerts would proceed as planned, stating "the concrete danger has been minimized." Enhanced security measures were to be implemented at Ernst-Happel-Stadion. However, the decision was later revised and all three shows were canceled. Next, Swift will perform at London's Wembley Stadium on August 15 for five consecutive nights. She will then return to the United States on October 18 for three nights of performances at the Hard Rock Stadium in Miami, Florida.
