Ariana Grande’s mum reportedly helped frightened concert-goers backstage after a bomb went off as the show ended.
Joan Grande was still sitting in her front row seat when the bomb exploded, according to website TMZ, who report she went on to escort panicked young fans backstage.
“Multiple witnesses” in the arena said the popstar’s mum was surrounded by several people waiting to leave the venue when they heard the explosion.
TMZ reports:
As the chaos of people fleeing for exits started… Joan told a group of kids – possibly as many as 10 – seated around her to come backstage. We’re told she and members of Ariana’s security took the fans backstage and waited with them until they were able to safely exit the arena.
Ariana has suspended her tour following last night’s events.
PAGreater Manchester Police have revealed the identity of the suicide bomber as 23-year-old Salman Abedi, who set off the explosive near the box office of the arena. He was reportedly known to authorities prior to last night’s attacks.
Three victims have been named so far as 26-year-old John Atkinson from Bury, eight-year-old Saffie Rose Roussos and 18-year-old Georgina Callander.
SWNSFollowing the attack at Ariana Grande‘s concert, a crowdfunding page has been set up to support victims and it has now reached more than £350,000.
The Manchester Evening News started the fundraiser initially, due to the overwhelming response from readers asking how they can help and contribute in some way.
A vigil is being held in the city centre this evening.
— G M Police (@gmpolice) May 23, 2017
Police are encouraging anyone with footage from the scene to upload it at ukpoliceimageappeal.co.uk or ukpoliceimageappeal.com. Other information can be reported to the anti-terrorist hotline on 0800 789 321.
