Def Leppard drummer Rick Allen still doesn’t know why a 19-year-old suddenly attacked him outside his Florida hotel earlier this year, knocking him to the ground and causing minor injuries. In his first official interview about the March incident, he told L.A Good morning America That potential motivation, whatever it may be, is far less important than the support and care he received during his recovery. He doesn’t think the assailant know who he was, anyway.
“I heard two footsteps, and then I kind of saw this dark flash, and the next thing I knew, I was on the ground. I landed on my butt and then kept going, hitting my head on the pavement.” I put my hands up in the air because I thought I was going to be attacked again. And I just said, “I’m not a threat to you.” I don’t think he knew who I was, but he must have seen that I wasn’t a threat because I only had one arm.”
According to the Fort Lauderdale police report I obtained Rolling Stone In March, the attacker, Max Edward Hartley, was arrested and charged with two counts of battery, four counts of criminal mischief, and one count of abuse of an elderly person or a disabled adult. Hartley pleaded not guilty. Allen lost his left arm in a car accident in 1984 when he was 21 years old, which he agreed to get him more prepared for this attack.
“I immediately went to that place where I was grateful for the fact that I had such an amazing wife and such an amazing family,” Allen said. “I’m just beginning to thank a higher power for the fact that I’m still here. I know I’m not going to be playing music in a band forever. But while I am, I plan on making as many people as possible happy. This is my chance. If only we could view other things this way, as well.” You know, we’re only here for a limited time.”
After the incident, Allen shared a statement on social media. Thank you all for your overwhelming support. Your love and prayers are really helping my wife Lauren [Monroe] Fortunately, he was not with me at the time of the accident. We’re together now, and we’re healing in a safe place. We are focused on healing for everyone involved.”
Allen continued his statement, saying, “We ask that you join us in our effort to move from confusion and shock to empathy and empathy. We understand that this violent act can upset many people. To all the fans, veterans, and first responders in our global community, we are thinking of you all. Together.” Together with love, we can all get through these difficult times.”
The incident occurred while Def Leppard was staying in the Fort Lauderdale area for their joint show with Mötley Crüe on March 12. The band will take the stage at Bramall Lane in Sheffield, England, on Monday to officially kick off the European stage. Their world tour.
