A Virginia church community is grieving after a tragic accident during an outdoor worship celebration left one person dead and more than 20 others injured.

The heartbreaking incident happened during a 20th-anniversary service hosted by EastLake Community Church in Moneta, Virginia. According to Bedford County officials, a severe storm cell moved through the area, bringing heavy rain, lightning and strong winds, before a powerful gust lifted and collapsed a large tent structure around 6:45 p.m.

Authorities said one person died at the scene. Eleven others were transported to local hospitals by ambulance, while another 11 people were treated for minor injuries at the scene.

Bedford 911 Emergency Communications classified the event as a mass casualty incident as first responders rushed to help those trapped or injured beneath the collapsed tent.

Pastor Troy Keaton said the church family is devastated by the loss.

“Our hearts are broken for his precious family,” Keaton said after confirming that one member of the church community died from injuries suffered during the collapse.

The pastor explained that he had noticed the weather changing and had just walked to the stage to begin dismissing attendees to their vehicles when the wind suddenly struck.

Deputy Chief Abby Johnson of Bedford County Fire and Rescue said Keaton had already begun trying to evacuate the service after seeing signs of worsening weather conditions, but events unfolded too quickly.

“He was in the process of clearing the event and the tent when it collapsed,” Johnson said.

Keaton thanked the first responders who were already serving at the event and immediately jumped into rescue efforts. Additional crews from neighboring communities also responded to assist.

County officials later confirmed the tent had passed a building inspection earlier in the week.

In a video message shared with the church community, Keaton reflected on the emotional contrast between the joyful celebration of two decades of ministry and the tragedy that followed.

“We need to be together,” he said. “Be encouraged; we are Christians.”

Despite the devastating loss, Keaton said Sunday services would continue as planned, focusing on “hope and healing.”

Virginia Gov. Abigail Spanberger also released a statement expressing condolences to the church and praising emergency personnel’s quick response.

“My heart is heavy with the news of the tragedy at EastLake Community Church this evening,” Spanberger said, adding that she was praying for everyone affected.

As the church community mourns, many believers across the country are lifting up the grieving family, the injured victims and church leaders in prayer during this difficult time.

Lord, bring comfort and peace to every hurting heart affected by this tragedy. Surround this church community with Your strength and healing in the days ahead. Amen.