Rapper Phora Wants to Give Fans Shoes, but Ends Up With Stampede

Southern California Rapper Phora held a meet-and-greet fan event in Hollywood on the evening of Oct. 8, but it ended up with stampede injuries.

The event was held outside Shoe Palace at the popular intersection of Hollywood Boulevard and Highland Boulevard.

Security is hired but can’t control the crowd so policemen had to get involved around 9:15 p.m., according to LAPD.

“I think it’s just because it was so hot, there were so many people. I’m claustrophobic myself... I’m about to pass out,” Phora said to the NBC reporter. He also apologized to LAPD and fans who have been waiting outside for hours to see him.

Fans described on their tweets that after Phora showed up on top of a black car, the crowd started to push each to take photos and videos. Some feel that they can’t breathe, and one girl said she is wearing a neck brace because of this.

Ten people are injured, and eight of them were sent to the hospital. There is no life-threatening case, according to Los Angeles Fire Department.

“Na na na everyone good I made sure someone passed out but she is okay now, her name is Alejandra and she says hi,” Phora tweets at 10:14 p.m. after leaving the scene.

“The love tonight was real. Over 6,000 people showed up in LA. We bought hundreds of shoes for people. And ended up getting shut down,” Phora tweets at midnight after the incident. “I appreciate the love, thank you to the fans. Forever owe it to you.”

Phora’s real name is Marco Anthony Archer. He has been promoting his music on YouTube for a few years and many fans like his love songs, especially the lyrics. Born in Anaheim, he just released a new album and is about to start his tour on Oct. 13 in Hollywood and then on to Las Vegas on Oct. 14, New York on Oct. 22, and Atlanta on Oct. 28.