Arrow-right Camera
The Spokesman-Review Newspaper
Spokane, Washington  Est. May 19, 1883

Rascal Flatts says Indianapolis show ends early because of ‘security concerns’

Rascal Flatts band members, from left, Joe Don Rooney, Gary LeVox and Jay DeMarcus perform on NBC’s “Today” show at Rockefeller Plaza on Monday, May 22, 2017, in New York. (Charles Sykes / Invision/AP)
Staff and wire reports

The country-pop trio Rascal Flatts left the stage without an encore Thursday night in Indianapolis, apparently because of security concerns.

The Indianapolis Star reported that Ruoff Home Mortgage Music Center staffers hurriedly evacuated the Noblesville amphitheater.

The trio, which is scheduled to perform Sept. 22 at Northern Quest Casino, posted the following message Friday morning on its Facebook page:

“Indianapolis – Due to a security concern at the show last night, standard procedures were quickly executed and everyone was able to safely leave the building. The safety of our fans, band and crew is always the top priority for us, so we are so thankful for everyone who jumped into action and for your understanding. We will be back soon!”

Venue officials referred questions about the evacuation to local law enforcement. Hamilton County Sheriff’s spokesman Bryant Orem told IndyStar.com an “open investigation” is underway.

Fans expressed disappointment via social media about the show’s abrupt end. At least two of the trio’s signature songs – “God Bless the Broken Road” and “Life is a Highway” – were not played.

Concert attendee Andy VonDielingen told IndyStar.com he witnessed a disruption in the general-admission “pit” area closest to the stage.

“(Rascal Flatts) had just finished their song ‘Banjo’ and did the what-was-thought-to-be-false ‘Good night’ before the encore,” VonDielingen said. “Their piano player started to play and then just stopped and left. A few minutes later lights come on and security is pulling some guy looking to be in his 20s out of the pit … Everyone is standing around, looking at each other and wondering what is going on.”