In a harrowing start to their United States tour, British indie rock band Sports Team was robbed at gunpoint on Tuesday morning in Vallejo, California, leaving the musicians shaken but determined to continue their musical journey.
The band was getting coffee at a local Starbucks when a passerby alerted them to a robbery in progress. What followed was a tense confrontation that could have turned tragic, with the robbers pulling a gun when band members attempted to intervene.
“Just been robbed at gunpoint 10 minutes into the US tour,” the band wrote in a social media statement. Despite losing passports, personal documents, and stage equipment, they maintained their characteristic British humor, quipping that the robbers “can take our Nintendo Switches but they can never take our ability to play rock songs about motorways.”
Harrowing details emerge
Drummer Al Greenwood recounted the terrifying moment to the BBC: “I really thought I was about to watch someone get shot.” The band was alerted by a stranger asking about a white Sprinter van being robbed, prompting them to rush out and confront the thieves.
Police response raises concerns
Adding insult to injury, the band reported that local law enforcement’s response was minimal. “Police response was ‘submit an online report,’” they stated, expressing frustration at the seeming nonchalance surrounding the crime. However, in a testament to their resilience, the Sports Team is pressing forward with their tour, heading to Sacramento to perform as scheduled.
This incident highlights growing concerns about crime and safety for touring musicians, particularly international artists navigating unfamiliar territories. The band’s candid and somewhat sardonic response has drawn attention to the precarious nature of touring in an increasingly unpredictable environment.
Looking ahead
Despite the traumatic experience, the Sports Team remains committed to their US tour. Their ability to maintain perspective and humor in the face of such a shocking event speaks to the band’s character and professional dedication.
The band’s tour continues a reminder of the show’s age-old mandate: the show must go on.
