The lead singer for Eagles of Death Metal apologized Friday after saying security guards at Paris' Le Bataclan may have known ahead of time about the November terrorism attack that killed 89 people.
The band was on the Le Bataclan stage on Nov. 13 when terrorists attacked the venue with automatic rifles, grenades and suicide vests. The band was able to safely escape through a backstage door.
"I humbly beg forgiveness from the people of France, the staff and security of the Bataclan, my fans, family, friends and anyone else hurt or offended by the absurd accusations I made,” frontman Jesse Hughes said in a statement released by Eagles of Death Metal. “My suggestion that anyone affiliated with the Bataclan played a role in the events of November 13 are unfounded and baseless -- and I take full responsibility for them.”
Since the unprecedented attack on Paris, Hughes said he's suffered through “non-stop nightmares.” He's sought the help of a therapist to deal with the trauma.
“I haven't been myself since November 13,” he said. “I realize there's no excuse form y words, but for what it's worth: I am sincerely sorry for having hurt, disrespected or accused anyone.”
Hughes' apology came just days after he shared his suspicions that security guards at Le Bataclan may have been in on the deadly attack in an interview with Fox Business Network. The interview aired Wednesday.
“When I first got to the venue and walked in, I walked past the dude who was supposed to be the security guard for backstage,” he said. “He didn't even look at me. I immediately went to the promoter and said, 'Who's that guy? I want to put another dude on,' and he goes, 'Well, some of the other guards aren't here yet.”
He told the news network “six or so” security guards failed to show up.
“It seems rather obvious they had a reason not to show up,” he said.
The attack on Le Bataclan was one of many reported on Nov. 13. In all, 130 people died in attacks across the city while about 350 others suffered injuries. A majority of the deaths happened at Le Bataclan.
