LANCASTER, N.H. (MyFoxBoston.com) — A father and daughter were killed and at least 15 others were injured after a tent collapsed during a storm at Lancaster Fairgrounds in New Hampshire Monday. Investigators say a microburst with sustained winds was to blame.
The two killed were Robert Young, 41, and his 8-year-old daughter, Annabelle, the NH governor's office confirmed to FOX25. A family friend said the wife and mother they left behind is crippled with grief.
The conditions of those injured are unknown.
Severe weather, including a microburst, caused the tent to collapse during the 5:30 p.m. circus performance, officials say. The fire marshal says the storm that moved through the area consisted of lightning, hail and winds of up to 60 miles per hour. A Severe Thunderstorm Warning had been issued in the area.
The New Hampshire State Fire said in a news conference on Tuesday that he wasn't sure why the show went on during a Severe Thunderstorm Warning, adding that it's the responsibility of the show to monitor weather conditions.
<< WATCH: NH Fire Marshal discusses deadly circus tent collapse >>
Up to 70 people responded to the incident between police, fire and EMS, officials say. The Red Cross utilized the Lancaster Motor Inn to provide aid for those affected. They say about 100 people were inside the tent at the time of the collapse.
The Office of the State Fire Marshal is leading the investigation, and will remain on scene throughout the night.
The Fire Marshal said that there is no indication any charges will be filed.
N.H. Governor Maggie Hassan released a statement on Tuesday morning, thanking the first responders and asking for anyone with information to contact the Fire Marshal.
Read her full statement here:
“Tom and I are deeply saddened by the tragedy last night in Lancaster, and we join all Granite Staters in sending our thoughts and prayers to the family and loved ones of those we lost, as well as everyone who was injured. We want to express our gratitude to all of the first responders who came to the aid of their fellow citizens and the bystanders who – in true Granite State fashion – also helped save lives. As the State Fire Marshal continues the investigation, I encourage anyone who was there, even if you think you don’t have any information, to contact the Office of the Fire Marshal.”
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