Madonna distraught by stage death

Jul 17, 2009, 9:17 GMT

A handout photograph released by Marine Pompiers de Marseille of members of a rescue team at the Stade Velodrome, in Marseille, France, 16 July 2009, after a structure collapsed killing one person and injuring at least six, two of them critically, while they were working to set up the stage for US singer Madonna\'s concert to be performed on 19 July. Stade Velodrome, with a capacity for 60,000 seated spectators, is France\'s second largest stadium. Some 50 technicians were working to set up the structure when it collapsed. EPA/MARINS POMPIERS DE MARSEILLE / HO HANDOUT --- BEST QUALITY AVAILABLE NO SALES NO ARCHIVES

Madonna has been left "devastated" after a man was killed while setting up the stage for her concert.

The '4 Minutes' singer paid tribute to the 53-year Frenchman, who died after the roof of the set caved in at Marseille's Velodrome Stadium. Six other crew members were seriously injured.

Madonna, who is currently on the European leg of her 'Sticky and Sweet' world tour, said: "I'm devastated at the tragic news. My prayers go to those who were injured and their families."

The 50-year-old pop star was told of the death while she was rehearsing for her concert at Friuli Stadium, in Udine, Italy, yesterday (16.07.09).

Later in the evening, she stopped her performance and tearfully told the audience: "I ask you for a moment to stop and think of the people who have lost their lives, we need to appreciate life, the people we love and our families."

The structure collapsed as four cranes were lifting it into position, and around 40 other workers are being treated for shock.

One worker said: "Technicians knew what they were doing, but there was a terrible accident. Sadly, these things can happen."

Madonna has now cancelled the sell-out show, which was due to take place on Sunday (19.07.09).