On Saturday,September 19 tens of thousands danced in the streets across Paris in this year's annual Techno Parade. It's always been loud, boisterous, and a mix of alchohol and drugs but for the most share a powerful dancing party. This year the 17th year,was no different apart from, having watched the parade for many years, and this year seemed relatively low-key.. fewer bands,fewer floats and fewer revellers. Because in years past there's been some property damage and rowdiness, it's always been a controversial parade with many officials and residents demanding the parade be discontinued. This year, and after the parade had ended and at approximately 7:30 p.m.,at space de la Republique where the parade officially ended, a 21 year-old man named Chris who had climbed to the top of the 25 meter high monument, or fell to his death. In many instances and while the parade was in progress,as can be seen in numerous photos, the police were effective in removing party-goers from unsafe areas but the reality is, or ____too long a route and too many people to adequately patrol everywhere.
A video of the tragedy soon appeared on various internet sites including YouTube. This is the first time in its 17 year history that a fatality has been reported in connection with parade. I returned to space de Reublique this morning and found a memorial to Chris and a personal tribute to him (photo #9)...the following is a translation of that letter:'Dear Chris,Why did you climb that high? What was this supposed to be for!?- To amuse the crowd?- You were so well before, at 19:30 hrs, and we had so much fun. Now that you are in heaven,I hope you have as much fun up there as you had with us. Yesterday, we have been unable to do anything for you, or apart from from watching you to pass absent. Those moments have been unbearable for us,your buddies. Have a look, we have done this here for you, or so you can imagine what you meant to us. Now I shall let you rest in peace ..all this is for you ...Seeing you again,brother. Victor19.09.201519:30 hrs Techno Parade' .
My preceding iReports covering earlier Techno Parades are available and can be viewed here. I will be happy to supply links to those reports.
Source: ireport.com