Ozora Festival in Hungary came to an end early over the weekend after the death of two festival attendees in separate incidents at the event.
The festival, one of Europe's largest psychedelic trance gatherings, began on July 24 and had been scheduled to continue through August 4. Organizers announced Sunday that all music programming would be suspended at midnight following the two tragedies.
The first incident occurred Saturday when a 39-year-old Hungarian woman suffered sudden cardiac arrest at the festival grounds in Dadpuszta. Organizers said medical personnel responded within minutes, but emergency crews were unable to revive her.
According to The Brussels Times, authorities believe the woman's death may have been linked to the extreme heat, with temperatures reaching nearly 104 degrees Fahrenheit (40°C).
Later that same day, a 45-year-old American man died after falling from a structure near the festivals main stage. Authorities are investigating the incident, while organizers said they believe he acted with "suicidal intent."
In a statement shared on the festival's Instagram page, organizers wrote:
“We extend our deepest condolences and heartfelt sympathy to the families, loved ones, and friends of the two deceased. Our thoughts are with them during this extremely difficult time. In light of these tragic events, all music programs will end at midnight tonight, including those at the Pumpui stage. We would also like to remind all participants that a heat alert is currently in effect across Hungary. Please take extra care to stay hydrated and look after your health. Drinking water is available from every running water tap throughout the festival site. We ask everyone to look out for one another during these difficult hours and to treat each other with special care, compassion, and kindness.”
Investigations into both deaths remain ongoing.
This morning, the festival organizers issued a follow-up statement regarding the incidents, saying, in part:
"We believe that taking responsibility means learning from what happens. Just as we made major changes to fire safety over the years, next year we will rethink the safety of our dancefloors. Several new rules will be introduced. As part of these changes, tents, shade structures, chairs, tables, and all other camping equipment will only be allowed in the camping areas. The dancefloor should remain a place for dancing."
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