BELVIDERE, IL – A GoFundMe campaign to cover funeral costs for Fred Livingston Jr., the lone victim of a tornado at the Apollo Theater in Belvidere, Illinois, has raised over $20,000 in just a few hours. Livingston was a father of three, and his family has expressed their gratitude for the support.
As of 7:30 am Sunday morning, $20,349 had been raised for funeral costs.
The EF-1 tornado struck during a sold-out heavy metal concert on Friday night, causing the roof to collapse on the audience of over 250 people. In addition to Livingston’s tragic passing, at least 15 others were critically injured.
The Apollo Theater has been a cultural icon in Belvidere for over 100 years, and the tornado has shaken the community to its core. Emergency responders rushed to the scene, and victims were transported to nearby hospitals for treatment.
Since the accident, other victims, including Victoria Bella and her fiancé, Michelle, who suffered extensive collective injuries such as a brain bleed, broken back, and multiple broken bones, have had fundraisers launched on the site.
The cause of the collapse is still under investigation, but early reports suggest that the tornado was the primary cause of the incident. The concert featured popular heavy metal bands Morbid Angel, Revocation, and Skeletal Remains, and attendees described the chaos that ensued when the roof collapsed.
The GoFundMe campaign for Livingston’s funeral expenses is just one example of the outpouring of support from the community in the wake of this tragedy. The family has expressed their appreciation for the kindness and generosity of those who have contributed.
As the community mourns the loss of a beloved father and friend, they are also coming together to support one another in the aftermath of this devastating event.
