Fan Injured by Flying Capo at Gunning Show

What was meant to be a celebratory moment during Dave Gunning’s warm-up set at Stan Fest turned unexpectedly eventful when local fan Nathaneal Jakubowski was struck in the forehead by a capo tossed from the stage.

Jakubowski, a longtime Gunning enthusiast, was reportedly clapping “respectfully but enthusiastically” when the incident occurred. Gunning had just finished a rousing rendition of Coal from the Train and, in a gesture of appreciation, flung one of his industrial-grade capos into the crowd.

“I didn’t think Dave would ever hurt me,” said Jakubowski, applying a bag of crushed ice to his forehead. “I mean, he kills just about everyone in his songs — loggers, fishermen, the odd coal miner — but never the fans.”

The capo, described by festival staff as “closer to a piece of farm equipment than a musical accessory,” left a visible lump but no lasting damage. Medical personnel on-site confirmed Jakubowski was fit to return to the audience, though they suggested he “sit a little farther back” for the remainder of the weekend.

Jakubowski, for his part, remains unfazed. “I’m keeping it,” he said, holding up the capo like a battle medal. “It still has his thumbprint.”

Dave Gunning, often referred to as Pictou County royalty, did not comment directly on the incident, but sources say he nodded solemnly in Jakubowski’s direction from the stage and mouthed what may have been “Sorry, buddy.”

Festival organizers have since reminded performers to avoid launching heavy hardware into the crowd, especially those built to withstand years of aggressive fretboard pressure.