Radiohead’s drum tech Scott Johnson  was killed and three others injured when a stage collapsed hours before the band played in Canada.

Witnesses say the structure “caved in on itself” leaving Johnson, 33, crushed underneath. A 45-year-old suffered a head wound and two others sustained minor injuries.

The tragedy took place a week after ZZ Top refused to play a show saying there was a risk of a stage collapse – although that statement has been questioned by event organisers.

Radiohead crew were setting the stage at Downsview Park, Toronto, when the structure fell in. Around 1000 people were in the 35,000-capacity open-air arena.

Toronto Police spokesman Tonny Vella reported: “They were setting up when the top portion collapsed on top of them. Four people were hurt. The remainder, when they heard the stage coming down, ran from the area.”

Downsview Park was evacuated immediately after the incident and Radiohead’s concert, the last in their current North American tour, was cancelled. Officials are continuing their investigation.