Sheila E. Criticizes Festival After Concertgoer's Death, Alleged Delay in Body Removal

Music legend Sheila E. has voiced strong criticism of the organizers of the Carson Jazz Festival following the death of a concertgoer, Shari Sanders, whose body was allegedly left in the crowd until after the performer's set concluded. The incident occurred amid sweltering temperatures in Southern California, with temperatures reportedly exceeding 100 degrees Fahrenheit.

Sheila E. shared her distress on social media, describing the situation as "devastating." She stated that she was unaware that Sanders had passed away during or before her performance until after she had finished playing. "We were all heartbroken because that's never happened, to have someone pass away before ... and it was outside," Sheila E. said. "It was at the park."

According to Sheila E., attendees began queuing early, and the festival grounds opened 30 minutes ahead of schedule. She observed emergency crews moving through the crowds, and from her dressing room, she could see people who appeared to be suffering from dehydration. Her band was waiting for their set, and she noted that production issues and delays meant they did not have a sound check.

"The lady, Shari Sanders, was saving seats – this is what we were told – was saving seats for her family and I guess someone saw her kind of slumped over a little bit, again this is what we were told," Sheila E. explained. A bystander reportedly checked on Sanders, found her unresponsive, and then paramedics arrived approximately 20 minutes later.

Sheila E. expressed that she and her band prayed for the woman before taking the stage. After her first song, she dedicated the performance to Sanders and her family and observed a moment of silence. It was not until approximately 5 p.m., after her set concluded around 4:30 p.m., that she was informed that Sanders' body had just been removed. "That is uncalled... that is not even uncalled for. It's devastating," she stated, adding, "I should not have played. Someone should have told me that she was still there."

She further criticized the festival's organizers, stating, "Carson City, you need to do better... They've been bragging about that they've been doing it for 40 years, but this is not good to have people sitting outside for three hours to be able to come to a festival." Sheila E. believes the festival should have been halted and called the situation "uncalled for."

In response to the incident, Mayor Lula Davis-Holmes issued a statement expressing condolences on behalf of the City of Carson. "Hearts are heavy following the tragic loss of a life at our community event," the mayor stated. "On behalf of the City, I extend our deepest condolences to the family, loved ones, and everyone affected by this tragedy. I have personally reached out and have spoken to the family during this painful time, and I ask our entire community to join me in keeping them in your prayers."

Fox News Digital has reached out to the Mayor's office and the city of Carson for comment.