New York’s much adored Electric Zoo Festival has been cancelled before the commencement of its third day after officials ruled the event presented “serious health risks” following the death of two patrons. The exact cause of death is yet to be confirmed however it’s been reported both were related to the party drug MDMA.
A statement from the city council says, “The City recommended cancellation and the event promoters have agreed,” in the wake of the festivals first two days which have also left at least 4 more attendees in a critical condition.
The deceased have been identified as Jeffrey Russ, 24 and Olivia Rotondo, 20. The statement continues:
“Definitive causes of death have not yet been determined, however, both appear to have involved the drug MDMA (ecstasy, or molly). The Electric Zoo organisers have worked with City officials to reduce health risks at this event, but in view of these occurrences, the safest course is to cancel the remaining day of the event.”
The festival, which kicked off last Friday, 30th August on Randall’s Island has since issued the following statement on its official website:
“The founders of Electric Zoo send our deepest condolences to the families of the two people who passed away this weekend. Because there is nothing more important to us than our patrons, we have decided in consultation with the New York City Parks Department that there will be no show today.”
The high-profile event was headlined by the likes of Avicci and David Guetta with Armin Van Buuren, Chase & Status and Steve Aoki expected to close out the third night.
(Via Stereogum)
