A roof has collapsed during a concert at the Apollo Theatre in Belvidere, Illinois, on Friday night leaving at least one person dead and dozens injured.
Harrowing images on social media showed a crowd of people trying to clear the rubble after a structure had partially collapsed inside.
According to reports a Chicago Fire Department source said there had been a request made for 20 ambulances.
Trees had also fallen on to nearby cars and the collapse happened as severe storms raged said to have seen winds of up to 90 mph.
The disaster happened at a Morbid Angel concert that was taking place.
Officers later confirmed that at least one person had died and there were 28 injuries. At the concert there were about 260 people present.
Belvidere Fire Chief Shawn Schadle said five people had been taken from the scene with severe injuries, with a further 18 with moderate injuries, and five with minor injuries.
The concert began at 7 pm with death metal bands Morbid Angel, Revocation, and Skeletal Remains on the bill.
The band put out a statement after the collapse and said: "Tonight's show is cancelled due to a Tornado that hit the Venue.
"We ask anyone who is still traveling to the venue to please seek shelter and stay safe. We are currently sheltering in place, and want to extend our support and hope that everyone at the show tonight is safe.
"Right now our focus is on making sure everyone in the venue tonight is ok and gets home."
Illinois Governor JB Pritzker said of the disaster: "My administration is closely monitoring the roof collapse at the Apollo Theatre in Belvidere tonight.
"I’ve been in touch with officials for updates and to direct any available resources we can. As we learn more, please follow the guidance of all local authorities."
According to local reports several people were seen being taken away on stretchers after the disaster.
The theater's marquee and facade had crashed onto the street, with images showing debris littering the area as first responders worked to help the injured.
