Horror struck New Zealand this past Friday (15th) as a 28-year-old Australian is currently accused of murdering 50 innocent lives after shooting two mosques in Christchurch. The attacker has expressed his hateful views on racism, anti-immigration, and has allegedly intended to spark a civil war in the U.S. Following this despicable and callous terrorist attack from this extremist-right wing/white supremacist, Slayer and Anthrax’s scheduled show last night (17th) at the Horncastle Arena has been cancelled.

The decision was made by Vbase, the company that runs the arena and you can read their statement below:

SLAYER WITH ANTHRAX CHRISTCHURCH SHOW CANCELLED.

Following advice from the Police and Christchurch City Council, Vbase has made the decision to cancel the Slayer concert which was due to take place at Horncastle Arena on Sunday 17 March.

“The advice we have received is too compelling to ignore and we have made this decision in conjunction with the Police and Christchurch City Council. We understand fans may be disappointed, however, we feel that it is in the best interest for the safety and wellbeing of the public after the tragic events which unfolded across our city 24 hours ago.” Tim Scandrett, Vbase Board Chairperson said.

“On behalf of Vbase our heartfelt deepest sympathies go out to all the families affected by the recent tragedy.”

Vbase Board Chairperson said.

“On behalf of Vbase our heartfelt deepest sympathies go out to all the families affected by the recent tragedy.”

Unfortunately, Vbase lost one of their own as Hussein Al-Umari who worked for the company was one of the fifty victims in the shooting:

“Meet Hussein Al-Umari (left), he was a member of our Presentation and Set-Up Team about 4-5 years ago.

Hussein is remembered fondly around here after a stunt he pulled during a friendly Vbase vs Horncastle Homes netball game. He was a real character and you would rarely see him without a big smile on his face.

Over the weekend we were deeply saddened to learn that Hussein was one of the 50 victims of 15 March. Rest in peace friend, thank you for making our lives more eventful. Our thoughts and love are with your friends and family at this time.

Love your Vbase Family”

Slayer hasn’t responded just yet. However,  Anthrax shared the following:

We stand with you New Zealand. And Christchurch, we’ll be back. #fuckracism

System of a Down’s Serj Tankian and Slipknot/Stone Sour’s Corey Taylor responded to the terrorist attack and you can read their thoughts here. Go to this location for more updates on this horrible tragedy.

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Zenae Zukowski