Rapper Travis Scott says he is “absolutely devastated” after at least eight people were killed in a crowd surge as he performed at a music festival in Texas.

In a message posted on social media, the musician said the police had his “total support as they continue to look into the tragic loss of life”.

The “mass casualty incident” happened during Scott’s headline performance at Astroworld Festival in Houston on Friday.

Some of the 50,000-strong crowd had moved closer to the stage while the rapper, who founded the festival, was performing on the opening night.

Scott stopped during his 75-minute set after spotting fans in distress near the front of the stage, and asked security to help people out of the crowd.

About 23 people were taken to hospital in a serious condition including 11 people who were critically injured, Houston fire chief Samuel Pena said.

One of those injured was just 10 years old.

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Eight killed in crowd surge during Travis Scott concert at Astroworld Festival in Texas

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In a statement released on Saturday, Scott said: “I’m absolutely devastated by what took place last night.

“My prayers go out to the families and all those impacted by what happened at Astroworld Festival.

“Houston PD (police department) has my total support as they continue to look into the tragic loss of life.

“I am committed to working together with the Houston community to heal and support the families in need.

“Thank you to Houston PD, Fire Department and NRG Park for their immediate response and support.

“Love You All.”

Scott, who has been nominated for eight Grammy Awards, has a three-year-old daughter with reality TV star Kylie Jenner, who announced in September that she is pregnant with their second child.

Astroworld is a two-day music festival that was scheduled to take place on Friday and Saturday in Houston.

The event was sold out, according to the Astroworld website. Saturday’s performances have been cancelled following the disaster.

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