9.30.2003
Thank the Lord for Hell on Earth
METAL FAN SET TO TAKE OWN LIFE ONSTAGE AT GIG
A fan is set to shockingly take their own life on stage at a forthcoming HELL ON EARTH gig on October 4 at ST PETERSBURG's STATE THEATRE.
The terminally ill fan wants to raise awareness for the cause of dignified death through suicide at the industrial metallers' concert.
The fan, who is a member of a euthanasia society, cannot reveal their identity or condition, though singer Billy Tourtelot has communicated with the fan via email.
He said: "I support the right to die with dignity. I got an email a few weeks ago from this person, who is a fan of the band and who stated an interest in doing this."
In an interview with Rolling Stone, Tourtelot said: "I was skeptical at first, but we did some research and talked to the person and met, and they're going to do it."
The singer plans to reveal the name of the person on the day of the concert, though the event could lead to a maximum of 15 years in prison for the band. Hell on Earth could face secondary felony charges for assisting in the commission of self-murder.
Bill Proffitt of the St Petersburg Police said: "I don't know if this is a publicity stunt, but we will most likely try to head them off at the pass and show them the statute. They may not be aware that it is a crime."
Tourtelot has rubbished claims that the suicide is a publicity stunt saying that the band have legal representation. He said: "I'm definitely not assisting in any suicide... what I'm doing may be immoral, but it's not illegal."
The fan issued a press release on September 15 saying: "I thank the Lord that Hell on Earth is giving me this opportunity to end my suffering. I just want to say as my last will and testament that this is my God-given choice to end my life."
They added: "I'd prefer to have a physician-assisted suicide but until the laws are changed, those who are in pain like me will either have to continue to suffer or do it themselves."
PDD Poll: What do you think? Is Hell on Earth immoral, or charitable?