A fan was reportedly pepper-sprayed during a Turnstile concert in Richmond, Virginia last Wednesday, September 24. The Baltimore hardcore band closed their set at Brown’s Island with “Birds” from their new album Never Enough, during which concertgoers are typically invited to join them onstage.
In a video circulated widely by CBS 6 News, one fan attempts to climb onto the stage, at which point they appear to be pepper-sprayed by a sheriff’s deputy. Turnstile bassist Franz Lyons can also be seen covering his eyes and running towards the back of the stage.
On Friday, September 26, Richmond Sheriff Antionette Irving told CBS 6 that the alleged pepper spray incident is currently under investigation. In the same report, a spokesperson for the Richmond City Sheriff’s Office also confirmed that local police department had been handling security at the Turnstile show.
When reached by Pitchfork, the Richmond City Sheriff’s Office offered no further comment. Pitchfork has also reached out to Turnstile’s representatives for for comment.
Turnstile are currently touring North America in support of Never Enough, with support from Speed, Jane Remover, Amyl and the Sniffers, Mannequin Pussy, and Blood Orange. The album was led by the singles “Never Enough,” “Birds,” “Seein’ Stars,” and “Look Out for Me.”
Read the cover story “Turnstile Blew Up. Now What?”