The Florida venue due to host that controversial gig by industrial rock band Hell on Earth, at which a terminally ill fan was planning to take his own life, has cancelled the performance. David Hundley, owner of the State Theater in St. Petersburg, told reporters that, while he was still not sure whether the supposed live suicide was a publicity stunt or an "illusion", he was concerned on the affect the stunt may have on younger fans. He told a news conference: "We deal with a lot of kids here and we don't want their parents to think that their kids are ever at risk."
Another local venue, Club Venom, also reportedly rejected the booking, though a notice on the band's website says the show, and the suicide, will go ahead at an undisclosed location within St. Petersburg city limits and will be webcast live. City officials, meanwhile, have been considered rushing through new legislation to ensure any such public suicide is illegal.
Although Hell On Earth are known for media stunts frontman Billy Tourtelot has insisted this is not the case this time round. Tourtelot also claims he has taken legal advice and that neither he nor any venue will be held responsible for the fan's death in the eyes of the law.
As previously reported, the fan wishes to commit suicide in such a public way to promote the cause for the legalisation of euthanasia.