On July 28, Governor Andrew Cuomo launched an investigation over a Chainsmokers concert that took place at Nova’s Ark Project in Water Mill, New York on Saturday, July 25 over COVID-19 violations.

The event, which was a part of the Safe & Sound series was promoted to be “a drive-in concert” experience that was supposed to “set the bar for all events to come” saw concertgoers leaving their cars, dancing and singing while completely ignoring the current social distancing regulations. 

Videos, which showcased the concert that appeared on social media caught the attention of the 62-year-old governor who tweeted, “Videos from a concert held in Southampton on Saturday show egregious social distancing violations. I am appalled”

The concert is currently under investigation with the Department of Health for the “illegal and reckless endangerment” of public health.

It was reported that there was approximately 2,000 people who attended the performance with ticket packages ranging from $850 to $25,000.  All proceeds of the concert were donated to three nonprofit organizations: Southampton Fresh Air Home, No Kid Hungry and Children’s Medical Fund of New York.

Cars apparently had designated parking spaces in front of the stage, which concertgoers were instructed not to leave unless they needed to use the restroom.  Temperatures were checked at the start of the event and hand sanitizer and protective face coverings were made available to all attendees.  Security guards were on hand to control the crowd but failed to do so.

The Chainsmokers’ consist of the duo Alex Pall and Drew Taggart who still have yet to comment on the repercussions of the event.

Written by Natalie Wicks Artists