Austrian authorities disclosed on Thursday that both suspects in the foiled plot appeared to be inspired by the Islamic State group and al-Qaida.
Investigators found bomb-making materials at one of the suspect’s homes. One of the two confessed to planning to “kill as many people as possible outside the concert venue.”
Disappointment and Financial Losses
The cancellation of the three sold-out concerts left fans devastated, many of whom had invested thousands of euros in travel and lodging in Austria’s capital city to attend the Eras Tour shows.
The Ernst Happel Stadium, expected to hold up to 65,000 fans at each concert and as many as 30,000 onlookers outside. The venue remained empty on Thursday morning, except for media filming street-views.
Concert organizers firmly stood by their decision to cancel all three events, citing concerns over public safety and the potential for mass casualties.
Details of the Terror Plot
According to Austria’s interior minister, Gerhard Karner, the foiled attack was planned for Thursday or Friday.
