The Kölschrock band Kasalla is mourning the loss of their technician Tom, who tragically died in a traffic accident on the A3 early Saturday morning, May 3, 2025. The news has sent shockwaves through the Cologne carnival scene, leading to the cancellation of a scheduled concert.
The accident occurred around 0:40 AM when a car with a trailer broke down between the Heumar junction and the Köln-Ost intersection heading towards Oberhausen. Tom, 55, was riding his motorcycle when he collided with the vehicle. Despite immediate resuscitation efforts at the scene, he succumbed to his injuries shortly after being transported to the hospital, as confirmed by local police.
Kasalla had performed the night before in Düren as part of their "Nit esu laut" tour. The band announced the cancellation of their concert in Wuppertal, originally scheduled for later that same evening, citing their inability to perform in the wake of their devastating loss. In a heartfelt statement shared across social media, the band expressed their grief: "We are torn apart. We are broken. We are devastated. Last night, Tom had a motorcycle accident and went home. The gap you leave behind cannot be measured in kilometers. If we had called you at three in the morning, you would have been there, no matter what."
They continued, addressing Tom directly: "You were always brutally honest with us and everyone. You were and will forever remain an inseparable part of us. We will meet again on the other side. Please, Tom, watch over us." The band also extended their thoughts to Tom's family and his partner Valeska, assuring them, "We are always here for you." The outpouring of grief extended beyond the band, with many fans, local artists, and the entire Cologne carnival community expressing their condolences.
Comedian Carolin Kebekus commented, "Oh no! My condolences!" while the renowned local band Bläck Fööss wrote, "Unbelievable! Our deepest condolences and sympathy! We wish you and all the relatives a lot of strength!" The Paveier shared their sorrow, stating, "We are absolutely shocked and incredibly sad. Over so many years, we have experienced you as a wonderful person, companion, and friend."
Many artists from the Cologne music scene quickly offered their condolences. The group Klüngelköpp expressed their sadness, saying, "We are speechless and sad. An always honest, helpful, and proper friend and colleague, both on and off the stage, has left us far too soon. Our deepest sympathy goes to the family and friends." Cat Ballou described Tom as "a very special person who will be greatly missed," while the band Miljö lamented, "This cannot be true! The most helpful person on earth. Tom, you will be missed. Unbelievable! We wish you all a lot of strength."
Marita Köllner, a local artist, reflected on her memories with Tom, stating, "A very dear person ❤️ I am deeply shocked. We had so many beautiful moments and always laughed a lot together. A true Cologne boy. I’m so sorry. I wish the family much strength."
According to reports, the tragic accident happened while Tom was returning home from the concert in Düren. The Köln police confirmed that the emergency call was received at 0:37 AM, and one lane of the highway was closed for investigation until around 8 AM when traffic resumed. The circumstances leading to the accident are currently under investigation.
The impact of Tom's death reverberates throughout the Cologne music scene, with many artists who worked with him over the years expressing their shock and sadness. The Räuber, another band he worked with in the early days, shared, "We deeply regret the loss as he also worked as a roadie and friend during our beginnings. Our heartfelt condolences and deepest sympathy go to you, the family, and the relatives."
As Kasalla navigates this painful period, they have stated that they will provide updates regarding the possibility of rescheduling the concert or ticket refunds. They hope for understanding from their fans as they grieve the loss of their beloved technician, who was more than just a colleague; he was family.
This tragic event serves as a reminder of the fragility of life and the profound connections formed within the music community. Tom's legacy as a dedicated technician and friend will be cherished by those who knew him, and the outpouring of love and support from the community reflects the deep impact he had on many lives.
