Second worker dies in Madonna stage setup

MARSEILLES, France, July 17 (UPI) -- Two people died when a stage being built for a performance by pop star Madonna collapsed in Marseilles, France, officials said.

A city spokesman said the construction accident occurred Thursday when a crane fell at the venue, CNN reported. The accident is under investigation.

The two victims were identified as a British citizen and a French citizen. Several other workers were injured, Marseilles fire department spokesman David Goddin told the U.S. broadcaster.

Madonna said Thursday she was "devastated" to hear about the deaths. She was scheduled to begin five concerts at the at the 60,000-seat Stade Velodrome Sunday as part of her "Sticky and Sweet" tour. At least one concert was canceled.

"My prayers go out to those who were injured and their families, along with my deepest sympathy to all those affected by this heartbreaking news," Madonna said in a statement issued by her representative, Liz Rosenberg.