Oasis Attacked At VFest Updated!

09/08/08 11:41am

by Aaron Brophy (CHARTattack)

TORONTO — The fighting Gallagher brothers had to literally fight off an over-enthused (loaded?) fan during Oasis' performance headlining day two of the Virgin Festival on Toronto Island on Sunday night.

Said fan ran onto the stage about 45 minutes into the band's set while they played "(What's The Story) Morning Glory." The human cannonball barrelled into Noel Gallagher before getting stuffed by security guards in his attempt to also attack Liam.

Liam showed surprisingly deft footwork for someone who usually stands still on stage. He quickly bounded clear of the chaos before circling back into the tangle with his right hand cocked and ready to throw a punch — which he didn't... at least not on stage in front of thousands of witnesses.

You can check out video of the incident here:

The band then left the stage to fan chants of "Fuck that guy!" and an uncertain five-minute break that sent less committed fans scurrying to the ferry docks under the assumption that the set was over.

Oasis returned, however, and played what may have been as close to a peace, love and understanding final set as a brawling band like them could. Noel came back out first to do "The Importance Of Being Idle." Liam eventually reappeared and they played "Don't Look Back In Anger," "Wonderwall" and a cover of The Beatles' "I Am The Walrus" before shutting things down.

Virgin chief marketing officer Nathan Rosenberg told the media after the show that the interloper had apparently been hiding under the stage before making the attack.

"[Oasis] understand sometimes these things happen."

Security is looking into how the breach happened to ensure it doesn't occur at future events.

According to a report by the Toronto Sun, a man in his thirties has been arrested and charged with assault.

Latest Update: According to a report on the band's official website, Noel was taken to the hospital after the gig with a suspected fractured rib and ligament damage.

Fans are being urged to hold on to their tickets for the London, Ont. show on Tuesday.

Update #2: The Toronto Star is reporting that 47-year-old Daniel Sullivan has been charged with assault in the incident. There are lots of videos and photos floating around online now. Search away...