Legendary Grammy Award-winning singer Patti LaBelle was rushed offstage at Milwaukee’s Riverside Theater following a bomb threat.
According to the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel, LaBelle’s performance at Riverside Theater’s Christmas concert came to an abrupt end after a bomb threat forced her to exit the premises. She and the near-capacity audience reportedly evacuated mid-show.
“Regarding the bomb threat in the 100 block of W. Wisconsin, all patrons have been safely evacuated,” Milwaukee Police Capt. Warren E. Allen Jr. said in a statement emailed that evening. “Police are clearing the facility at this time. The investigation is fluid and ongoing.”
Video footage taken of the Riverside concert, shows LaBelle conversing with a concertgoer who was celebrating her 70th birthday and receiving flowers from another fan. Shortly after the sweet moment, the musician’s security quickly approached her while she was still at the microphone.
“Wait!” the 78-year-old shouted as the two men escorted her off the stage.
An audience member Scott Pierce recalled what happened in a message to the Journal Sentinel.
“Everybody very calmly exited the theater in a disbelieving manner. I heard lots of comments about how sad it was that someone would pull such a pathetic stunt,” Pierce said.
In a second statement released the following day, Allen confirmed that “no explosive devices” were discovered at Riverside Theater.
“The building was searched by K9 units. No explosive devices were discovered. There is no threat to the public at this time,” he shared.
Riverside Theater operator, the Pabst Theater Group, additionally released a statement saying the Christmas show was postponed.
“We are thankful for the efforts of the Milwaukee Police Department and our customers and staff for their safe and orderly exit,” the statement said. “We are working with the artist to reschedule the show.”
The singer hasn’t made any posts on her social media accounts regarding the bomb threat.
