Cumbria Police have confirmed that a 17-year-old girl died following a medical episode at the Kendal Calling music festival in the Lake District. Emergency services were called to the scene shortly before 2:15am today, and despite immediate CPR from first responders, the teenager was pronounced dead at the festival site.
Police statement and family support
In a statement, Cumbria Police said: "Her family have been informed and are being supported by specialist officers. Our thoughts are with them at this difficult time." The force added that inquiries into the circumstances of her death are ongoing.
Officers are now appealing for potential witnesses who were in the vicinity of the 'Calling Out' tent or the 'Big Wheel' area on the festival grounds to come forward. The exact cause of the medical episode has not yet been disclosed, and a post-mortem examination is expected to take place in due course.
Festival response and medical care
A spokesperson for Kendal Calling said: "As soon as the individual became unwell, they were immediately attended to by our on-site security and medical teams. Paramedics and medical personnel provided emergency care at the scene and did everything they could to help."
The festival, which began on Thursday in the picturesque setting of Lowther Deer Park, was headlined by Biffy Clyro on Friday night. Other acts on the lineup include The Libertines, Gabrielle, Wolf Alice, and Primal Scream, with the latter two scheduled to perform today.
Context and ongoing investigation
The incident marks a somber moment for the festival, which attracts thousands of attendees each year. While the exact number of festival-goers at Kendal Calling 2026 has not been officially released, the event typically draws around 30,000 people over the weekend.
Local authorities have not released the identity of the deceased, respecting the family's privacy during this difficult time. The investigation is being led by Cumbria Police, who are working to establish the full circumstances leading up to the medical episode.
This tragedy follows other recent incidents at UK festivals, highlighting the importance of on-site medical provisions. Kendal Calling has reiterated its commitment to attendee safety, with medical teams stationed throughout the site.
Anyone with information or who witnessed the incident is urged to contact Cumbria Police on 101, quoting incident number 32 of August 2.
