British Band Sports Team Robbed at Gunpoint on First Day of US Tour
LOS ANGELES — In a shocking turn of events, the British band Sports Team fell victim to a terrifying armed robbery on the inaugural day of their US tour.
The indie sensation, known for their chart-topping success in the UK, had their passports, stage equipment, and personal belongings snatched away as a thief raided their tour van in Vallejo, California, situated in the Bay Area.
Footage shared with the BBC captured the thief menacingly brandishing a gun towards the group’s tour manager as she approached the van.
“When faced with a weapon, the natural instinct is to seek shelter,” remarked lead singer Alex Rice. “However, what struck me the most was the lack of panic in the surroundings. It was as if such incidents were a part of everyday life.”
The incident unfolded around 4:45pm UK time (8:45am in California) as the band was en route to kick off their tour in Sacramento.
While grabbing breakfast at a local Starbucks, a concerned passerby alerted them to the ongoing robbery.
“Someone burst in and asked if anyone owned a white Sprinter van because it was being robbed,” recounted drummer Al Greenwood in an interview with the BBC.
As chaos ensued, the bandmates rushed outside, with their tour manager Lauren leading the charge. A warning from a bystander about the armed thief sent shivers down their spines.
“I feared witnessing a potential tragedy as our tour manager was slow to react,” Greenwood added.
The intense scene was captured on video by a band member inside Starbucks, where staff urged everyone to seek refuge indoors as the band scrambled for safety.
“It was surreal how the staff resumed their duties as if nothing had happened,” Greenwood expressed. “They resumed serving drinks without skipping a beat,” Rice chimed in.
Upon contacting the authorities, the band was simply advised to submit an online report without dispatching any officers to investigate the incident.
According to the band, the thief shattered the van’s passenger window as they sought shelter inside, targeting their electronics such as film cameras and stage laptops.
The loss extended to their passports, documents, and clothing, leaving them with a wardrobe conundrum for the upcoming weeks.
Despite the setback, the band remains resolute in proceeding with their tour, showcasing their resilience as they gear up for their opening show on Tuesday night.
“This incident won’t deter us,” Greenwood affirmed. “It serves as a poignant reminder to appreciate the good amidst adversities, both here and back home.”
The tour itinerary includes a return to the Bay Area, with Rice emphasizing their commitment to continue performing despite the unfortunate encounter with gun violence.
“We’re not letting this hinder us. The Bay Area is fantastic, but it’s disheartening to witness such violence prevail,” Rice concluded. — BBC
