Taylor Swift’s three Eras Tour concerts in Vienna were canceled after government officials confirmed a planned terrorist attack at Ernst Happel Stadium, the local concert promoter announced Wednesday.
The security situation was very serious and a tragedy was averted, Austria’s Chancellor Karl Nehammer wrote in a social media post.
“We have no choice but to cancel the three scheduled shows for everyone’s safety,” said Barracuda Music, the promoter for the Austrian shows. “All tickets will be automatically refunded within the next 10 business days.”
Swift had been set to perform in Vienna on Thursday, Friday and Saturday.
Earlier Wednesday, Vienna Federal Ministry of the Interior officials confirmed the arrest of two individuals who are “suspected of having planned attacks at major events,” including Swift’s concerts.
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“During our investigations, we identified preparatory actions and noted that the 19-year-old suspect had a particular focus on the Taylor Swift concerts in Vienna,” said Franz Ruf, director general for public security. He alleged that the suspect, an Austrian citizen, had pledged allegiance to the Islamic State.
Another suspect was later arrested in Vienna. Police searched the residence of one of the suspects in Ternitz, Lower Austria, and were analyzing items from the home. Local media, citing police sources, said three suspects were still on the run.
“The cancellation of the Taylor Swift concerts by the…
