Investigation Underway After Police Deploy Pepper Spray At TURNSTILE’s Richmond Show

A police investigation is now underway following an incident at Turnstile’s September 24th show on Brown’s Island in Richmond, VA. During the set-closing performance of “Birds”, the band invited fans onstage, but tensions escalated when security and local police officers — who had been hired to assist with event safety — clashed with the crowd.

Fan-filmed footage shows bassist/vocalist Franz Lyons visibly helping a fan onto the stage and pushing back against attempts by a member of security to block them. Moments later, an officer, who had already drawn pepper spray, can be seen deploying it directly into the face of an audience member attempting to climb onstage. The spray also reached the surrounding crowd and came dangerously close to the band.

Richmond Sheriff Antionette Irving confirmed an investigation has been launched, telling WTVR: “We are reviewing the concert activity and any allegations related to any incidents.”

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