Carl Cox's massive Saturday night set at Venezuelan club Red Noise was consumed by gang violence, with four people dead and scores injured.
The superstar DJ was playing a set at the popular Caracas late Saturday night, and his appearance was hailed as a bridge-building move by promoters in the South American country. However, panic gripped the 7,000 dance-revellers after a gun battle erupted between two rival gangs. A total of four people died from the shootings, with nine further people injured when shots were fired into the crowd.
DJ Cox was horrified to learn of the deaths, and issued the following statement this week: "I am deeply shocked and still stunned by the events of Saturday. My condolences go out to victims that were caught up in the horrific act that took place at this gig, and also their families.
"I am informed that it was gang-related, and feel so sad that anybody would act in such a manner when the event was full of 7000 people having fun.
"I find it such a sad moment in electronic music as this was probably one of the best set up shows I had played in South America - a sign of real progress yet utterly hijacked by this mindless act. Again, my heart goes out to those that have died or been injured. This is NOT what the dance scene is about and is a million miles away from what I want to do or promote."
Police have yet to make any arrests following the violence.
