A cult-favorite punk band, whose San Francisco concert was canceled after a serious crash, is nearing its fundraising goal as the trio remain hospitalized.
Peelander-Z, the Japanese performance-punk band known for its color-coded stage personas and high-energy shows, had been scheduled to play Bottom of the Hill on Monday, May 25. The concert was canceled after the band’s tour van was hit while traveling through New Mexico.
“A horrific accident in New Mexico sent them into the hospital instead, and we are devastated that all 3 of them will have a long recovery ahead,” the venue wrote.
The injured members have been identified as Peelander Yellow (Kengo Hioki), Peelander Pink (Yumiko Kanazaki) and Peelander Tiger (real name undisclosed). All three are conscious and stable, according to a new medical update.
The band’s GoFundMe has since raised over $187,000 toward a $190,000 goal as of Friday, May 29, with more than 2,300 donations.
“Thank you all for your generous donations and support for Yellow, Pink, and Tiger after their horrific accident,” Team Peelander Z wrote in an update posted to the fundraiser.
The crash happened May 18 on Interstate 40 east of Albuquerque, when a semi-truck rear-ended the band’s tour van while the group was headed west toward Albuquerque, according to authorities.
Hioki suffered multiple fractures to his spine, ribs and arm, as well as evidence of traumatic brain injury, according to the update. His injuries are no longer considered life-threatening, but he is expected to need additional surgeries and significant rehabilitation. The update said he is alert and able to communicate.
Kanazaki suffered several fractures in her legs and pelvis, along with abdominal trauma and organ injuries. She has undergone surgeries and is eating, drinking and able to communicate.
Tiger suffered a head injury and is being monitored for traumatic brain injury, but has shown significant progress and is expected to be discharged soon.
The crash prompted the band to cancel the rest of its tour.
Dan Redman, who organized the GoFundMe, said several benefit concerts were being planned.
Peelander-Z has built a devoted following over more than two decades with a live act that blends punk music, audience participation and comic-book spectacle. The band’s offstage life and relentless touring were chronicled in the 2016 documentary “Mad Tiger.”