Last week, Def Leppard's Rick Allen made headlines after reports of him being attacked in Florida circulated around the internet. Today, the rocker is finally ready to address the issue and give fans an update about his current condition.
The musician issued a statement to ABC News; he began by expressing his gratitude to all of his supporters for their "overwhelming support" as their love and prayers are helping him to recover.
The drummer is currently staying with his wife, Lauren Monroe, and he clarified that she wasn't with him at the time of the assault.
"We are together now, and working on recovering in a safe space," he added, noting that everyone involved in the attack is focused on healing.
Allen has a request to all of his fans as he encourages them to join their effort to "move from confusion and shock to compassion and empathy."
He further noted that what happened to him was triggering to some people especially veterans, fans, and first responders from all parts of the globe, and he wanted to tell them that they are thinking of them all.
"Together with love, we can all get through these difficult times," he added.
Rick Allen Attacked in Florida
In early reports, the drummer was standing outside the Four Seasons in Fort Lauderdale when he was suddenly attacked by a teenager. He was at the venue for a performance with Def Leppard.
The musician reportedly smoked a cigarette outside the premises when the attacker named Max Hartley knocked him down, leading him to hit his head.
A woman immediately rushed to the drummer's aid, but the said suspect also assaulted her by striking her several times. She attempted to escape by going inside the hotel, however, she was stopped as Hartley pulled her hair and took her outside again.
Rick Allen Attacker Arrested
According to the Daily Mail UK, the attacker had been arrested following the incident. Authorities were able to locate him in a parking area near the hotel.
Per a Fort Lauderdale police incident report, Max Hartley was charged with four counts of criminal mischief, one count of misdemeanor battery, and one count of aggravated battery.
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