Ceiling collapse at movie theater during 'Captain America: Brave New World' screening in Washington D.C.

During a recent screening of 'Captain America: Brave New World', moviegoers experienced a terrifying incident as the ceiling of the theater unexpectedly collapsed. The event led to multiple injuries and raised serious concerns about the safety standards of the establishment. Eyewitnesses reported that the collapse occurred approximately halfway through the film, causing panic and chaos as debris fell onto the audience. Emergency services were promptly dispatched to the scene, providing immediate medical attention to the injured and evacuating the premises to prevent further harm.

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Investigation into structural integrity

Authorities have launched a thorough investigation to determine the cause of the ceiling collapse. Preliminary assessments suggest that potential structural weaknesses or maintenance oversights may have contributed to the incident. The theater management has pledged full cooperation with investigators and has temporarily closed the venue to address safety concerns. Photos from first responders show the movie still projected on the screen, but with a heap of snapped planks and ceiling tiles covering the front of the theater. A video from the fire department shows long, wooden planks scattered across the floor, pointing up toward the now-gaping ceiling.

The incident has left the local community shaken, with many patrons expressing reluctance to return to the theater until assurances of safety are provided. Some have called for stricter regulations and regular inspections of entertainment venues to prevent similar occurrences in the future. Sun Basin Theatres, which owns the downtown Wenatchee cinema, told NBC News that the collapse was "unexpected." "We are all grateful that no one was seriously injured when this occurred on Tuesday evening," spokesperson Bryan Cook said in a statement.

Safety measures and future precautions

In response to the incident, the theater chain has announced plans to conduct comprehensive safety audits across all its locations. They aim to identify and rectify any potential hazards to ensure the well-being of their patrons. Additionally, local authorities are considering implementing more rigorous building codes and inspection protocols for public venues.

Cook added that the theater's team is working with local authorities "to ensure a thorough investigation" to figure out what caused the ceiling to come crashing down. Wenatchee Valley Fire Department Battalion Chief, Cam Phillips, responded to the scene on Tuesday night, telling NBC News affiliate, King5, that a couple had the theater to themselves before the untimely collapse. “They heard some pops and cracking and the gentleman stood up and took a peek,” Phillips told King5. “[He] walked up toward the screen and as he looked up, he said, ‘Run!'”