France’s annual Fête de la Musique was disrupted by a disturbing wave of needle attacks, with at least 145 people reportedly jabbed across the country on June 21. According to the interior ministry, 12 individuals were detained in connection with the incidents, which occurred during the nationwide music street celebration attended by millions.
Authorities have not disclosed what substances (if any) were inside the syringes. Investigations are underway, including in Paris, where three individuals were jabbed in separate incidents and later reported feeling unwell. Law enforcement confirmed 13 cases in the capital alone.
Additional cases were reported in cities including Angoulême, where four suspects are believed to have attacked up to 50 people.
Music festivals are often seen as carefree escapes, where like-minded fans gather for days of live music, community, and celebration. But amid the excitement and joy, some festivals have taken devastating turns, unraveling into chaos, danger, and tragedy.
From catastrophic weather to poor planning, overcrowding, and even violence, some events have destroyed the delicate balance between revelry and risk, but there are a select few that stand out as particularly horrible. Curious? Click through this gallery to see some of history’s most infamously disastrous music festivals that have left haunting memories.