It's been a tumultuous year for Otep vocalist Otep Shamaya, who made headlines earlier this year when her band dropped off a tour when organizers booked another act after she claimed the group's singer physically groped her. Now comes word from Otep that another assault attempt occurred, this time from an audience member at a recent show in Illinois.

According to a statement, the band was performing at the Take 20 in Belvedere, Ill., on Sunday, June 7, when an unruly fan wreaked havoc on the show and later attempted to attack her at a post-show meet-and-greet. The singer issued a statement on the matter to Metal Sucks that can be read below:

I’d like to thank everyone, all the fans and supporters, the venue and their security, who stood by me during the unfortunate altercation after our performance. Our shows do get wild and riotous but this was different. I apologize for all the blood but I was being physically threatened and had to defend myself. Thanks again for your unending support.

A description of the incident reads as follows:

According to staff and audience members, a man, described as very large and belligerently drunk, was attempting to instigate fights before the show, including harassing OTEP’s muscle-man guitar player, Aristotle. Later, this same man was seen throwing a young woman into the Monitor Board which resulted in a disruption of sound during OTEP’s set. After the show, as Otep was on stage inviting people to the meet & greet at the merch table, the same man screamed out that she was a “C--T” and charged the stage. Fearing for her safety, she instinctively struck his head with her microphone. He screamed to hit him again and lunged at her and she struck him a second time. Security then removed him from the venue while he continued to scream insults at Otep.
Known for her advocacy against bullying and her stance regarding violence against women, Otep continues to defend equality and safety for all people, including her own.

Otep are in the midst of a lengthy tour that runs through the end of July. Check out all their upcoming dates here and be safe out there.

More From Loudwire