Axe Ceremonia Cancels Sunday Programming After Two Die in Crane Collapse

A crane carrying a decorative metal object collapsed on Saturday at Axe Ceremonia, killing photographers Miguel Ángel Rojas and Citlali Berenice Giles Rivera.

Two individuals have passed away after a crane collapsed on Saturday, April 5 at AXE Ceremonia in Mexico City. The festival’s organizers called off all Sunday programming at the city’s Bicentennial Park as a result.

According to The Associated Press, the crane was carrying a decorative piece when a strong gust of wind toppled it over. It fell on two photographers named Citlali Berenice Giles Rivera, 28, and Miguel Ángel Rojas, 26, both of whom were covering the festival on behalf of the media outlet Mr. Indie, per El Universal. Both were transported to the hospital but declared dead on arrival.

“With deep sadness, we confirm the passing of the two people who were injured during today’s incident,” reads a statement shared by AXE Ceremonia on Saturday. “We are deeply heartbroken by this loss.”

It continues: “We are reaching out to their families to support them during this incredibly difficult time and to provide them with all our care and solidarity. The safety of our community has always been our priority, and we continue, as from the very beginning, to maintain close collaboration and complete transparency with the authorities.”

On Sunday, AXE Ceremonia announced that the festival gates would not reopen to attendees. “Following the unfortunate incident that occurred yesterday, we inform you that it has been decided to suspend the activities scheduled for today, following the guidelines of the relevant authorities,” reads their statement. “Our solidarity and support go out to their families and loved ones during this painful time.”

AXE Ceremonia billed artists like Parcels, Natanael Cataneo, and Charli XCX alongside DJs like Barry Can’t Swim and DJ Gigola. Among the acts slated to perform on Sunday were Tyler, the Creator, Richie Hawtin, Gesaffelstein, and HorsegiirL.

Mexican authorities have launched an investigation into the incident. AXE Ceremonia’s organizers have said that refunds will be processed automatically through Ticketmaster.