Teen Fan Helps Avert Tech Disruption at Download Festival During Within Temptation Set
A 16-year-old fan has been praised for her quick thinking and vigilance after spotting suspicious equipment that led to the discovery of unauthorized signal interference devices at this year’s Download Festival, during a major appearance by symphonic metal icons Within Temptation.
Jade Marley, a Dutch-British teenager attending the festival with friends, noticed a blinking device taped underneath a vendor cart near the north entrance earlier in the day. Initially dismissing it as routine equipment, Jade later recalled training videos she’d seen with her brother, who studies cyber-security, and realized the device didn’t fit standard surveillance setups.
“I just had a weird feeling about it,” Jade told BBC Sounds in an interview following the event. “There were no cables, no labels—just a black box blinking. Then I saw another one later by a lighting rig. That’s when I knew I had to say something.”
Jade approached security between set changes, showing them photos she had taken of the devices. Her report prompted a rapid sweep of the area by festival staff and local authorities, who confirmed that at least two interference devices had been planted near technical systems. While non-explosive, officials say the devices could have disrupted stage communications, lighting, and sound equipment—potentially causing confusion or safety risks during the headline performance.
Security personnel credited Jade’s report with “likely preventing a serious incident.” The nature and intent behind the planted devices remain under investigation, though authorities say no broader threat to public safety was identified.
Festivalgoers remained unaware of the situation until later in the night, when Within Temptation lead singer Sharon den Adel paused between songs to deliver an emotional tribute:
> “Tonight we thank someone brave in the crowd—who reminded us that vigilance has no age. You know who you are.”
The moment sparked cheers from the crowd, many unaware until then of the behind-the-scenes scare.
Festival organizers issued a statement Saturday morning acknowledging the teen’s role in alerting security:
> “We commend Jade Marley for her outstanding vigilance. Her actions exemplify the importance of public awareness and collaboration with event security.”
Social media buzzed with tributes to the young fan, with hashtags like #JadeTheHero and #FestivalGuardian trending among fans of the band.
Jade, meanwhile, says she’s still processing everything:
> “I just didn’t want anything to ruin the show. Within Temptation means the world to me. I’m just glad everyone’s okay.”
