MARYLAND HEIGHTS - Thousands of fans left the Kings of Leon concert at Verizon Wireless Amphitheater disappointed Friday night after the band left the stage having played just three songs.

The band finished its third song, then walked off stage. The stage went dark, and an announcer off-stage said that due to safety reasons, the show had been canceled. Then someone walked on stage and delivered the same news.

Many fans stayed at first, chanting their disapproval, but began leaving after it became clear the band wasn't returning to the stage.

"This show can not go on," an announcer said. "The situation is beyond our control."

Rumors flew about the cause of the cancelation but no one could confirm the reason to Stltoday.com Friday night.

The opening act, The Stills, started at 7:30 p.m., and Kings of Leon took the stage at about 9:30.

A spokeswoman for the amphitheater said by phone Friday night around 10:15 p.m. that concert-goers could receive refund information Saturday morning either by calling 314-298-9944 or checking its website.

The nature of the safety concern that caused the cancellation had "not made its way up front," she said.

"We're just as surprised as everyone else," she said.

She added that the safety concern was not because of a problem with the venue.

Kyle Emrey, 20, of St. Louis said he paid $80 for two tickets and was disappointed to not get much for his money.

"I'm a poor college student," he said. "I don't understand the safety concerns."

He said he planned to seek a refund.