Jason Aldean Cancels Weekend Tour Dates After Route 91 Harvest Festival Shooting
Jason Aldean has canceled three of his upcoming tour dates following the shooting at the Route 91 Harvest Festival on Sunday night (Oct. 1). In a press release, the country star explains that his decision comes "out of respect for the victims, their families and our fans."
Aldean's affected tour dates, which are part of his They Don't Know Tour, were scheduled for Oct. 6 in Los Angeles, Calif.; Oct. 7 in San Diego, Calif.; and Oct. 8 in Anaheim, Calif. Refunds for the three shows are available at the point of purchase. Aldean will resume his tour on Oct. 12 in Tulsa, Okla.
"It has been an emotional time for everyone involved this week, so we plan to take some time to mourn the ones we have lost and be close with our family and friends," Aldean says in the press release. "Our first time back onstage will be a very tough and emotional thing for us, but we will all get through it together and honor the people we lost by doing the only thing we know how to do -- play our songs for them."
In the press release, Aldean adds apologies to anyone who is disappointed that he has canceled three tour dates, but he hopes that people understand the decision. He also thanks fans and friends "for the outpouring of love."
Country Stars Respond Following Route 91 Harvest Festival Shooting
"You guys have no idea how much you have helped get us through this tough time," he says.
Aldean was onstage when Stephen Paddock opened fire on the Route 91 Harvest Festival from a hotel room at Mandalay Bay, killing more than 50 people and wounding more than 500 people. A fan-shot video video shows Aldean performing “When She Says Baby” as shots begin to ring out; Aldean rushes offstage mid-song once he realizes what’s happening.
Aldean's pregnant wife, Brittany, was at the festival with him. Fortunately, she, Aldean and their crew were unharmed.
“My heart aches for the victims and their families of this senseless act,” Aldean says. “I am so sorry for the hurt and pain everyone is feeling right now, and there are no words I can say to to take that pain away. Just know u all are in my heart and my prayers as we all go through this together.”
Remembering the Route 91 Harvest Festival Shooting Victims