British indie band Sports Team was robbed at gunpoint on the first day of their US tour in Vallejo, California, losing crucial equipment and personal belongings in a shocking incident.
The robbery occurred around 4:45pm UK time (8:45am local time) while the band was stopping at a Starbucks before heading to their tour’s opening date in Sacramento. A passerby alerted the band that their white Sprinter van was being robbed, prompting them to rush outside.
Dramatic footage captured by a band member shows a thief brandishing a gun at their tour manager. Singer Alex Rice noted the unsettling calmness of the local environment, remarking that the people around them seemed unperturbed by the violent incident.
Drummer Al Greenwood described the moment, saying someone warned them about the robbery in progress. She recalled feeling terrified, believing she was about to witness someone being shot. In the video, Greenwood can be heard screaming at the tour manager to get down.
The thief smashed the van’s passenger window and primarily targeted electronics, including film cameras and laptops used during performances. The band also lost all their passports, documents, and suitcases containing their clothes, meaning they’ll have to wear the same outfits for the next two weeks.
A particularly devastating loss for Greenwood was her personal journal, which she described as “almost the worst part” of the robbery.
Fortunately, the band’s instruments were stored in a separate, locked compartment and remained untouched. Despite the traumatic experience, Sports Team remains determined to continue their tour.
When they contacted local law enforcement, the band was advised to simply fill out an online form, and no officers were sent to investigate the incident. The BBC has requested comment from the local police department.
The band, who are promoting their upcoming third album “Boys These Days”, expressed resilience and a positive attitude. Greenwood stated they won’t let the incident deter them, adding that it makes them reflect on things to be grateful for.
Rice acknowledged the broader issue of gun violence while maintaining a constructive perspective. “We’ve got nothing against the Bay Area. We think it’s great here – but it’s sad that it’s kind of got to this sort of place with gun violence,” he said.
The band plans to proceed with their tour as scheduled, including a return to the Bay Area on Saturday night. Their opening show is still set for Tuesday, demonstrating their commitment to their music and fans despite the challenging circumstances.
This incident highlights the unpredictable risks touring musicians can face and the band’s remarkable resilience in the face of adversity.
