Abbott creates safety task force in wake of Astroworld tragedy to 'develop meaningful solutions that will keep Texans safe'

Gov. Greg Abbott formed the Texas Task Force on Concert Safety to develop ways to enhance security and safety at live music events in the state.

Abbott put together the task force following the tragedy at the Astroworld Festival in Houston that left at least 10 people dead and hundreds injured as the packed crowd rushed the stage.

"Live music is a source of joy, entertainment and community for so many Texans – and the last thing concertgoers should have to worry about is their safety and security," Abbott said in a release. "To ensure that the tragedy that occurred at the Astroworld Festival never happens again in the Lone Star State, I am forming the Texas Task Force on Concert Safety. From crowd control strategies to security measures to addressing controlled substances, this task force will develop meaningful solutions that will keep Texans safe while maximizing the joy of live music events. I thank the members of this task force for coming together to work on this important issue."

The task force will utilize several roundtable discussions to evaluate concert safety, procedures and emergency response plans. From the roundtable discussions, the task force will produce a report of findings and recommendations to enhance the safety and security of concertgoers.

The task force will be directed by Texas Music Office Director Brendon Anthony and composed of representatives from Combined Law Enforcement Associations of Texas, Sheriff’s Association of Texas, Texas Department of Public Safety, Texas Municipal Police Association, Texas Alcoholic Beverage Commission and Texas State Association of Firefighters.