The metal band Metallica addressed the passing of a fan at their concert. Lorne, also known as Viking, passed away in the crowd due to an unspecified medical condition.
Following the death of a fan at their concert, Metallica shared a heartfelt tribute.
They posted on social media: “On Friday night, August 23rd, in Edmonton, we lost a member of the Metallica family during the show. He passed away due to health issues. Leaving his earthly body for the next journey. It’s always heartbreaking when death occurs, but we are touched that he chose to spend some of his final, hopefully joyful, moments with us.”
“Our heartfelt condolences go out to the family and friends of Lorne ‘Viking,'” they added, signing off “with love & respect” to their fallen fan and his loved ones. Lorne’s friend also expressed grief on social media, mourning the loss of the rock enthusiast.
In a Metallica fan group on Facebook, Erika Oldale confirmed Lorne’s passing, noting that he “experienced a medical issue” and was “carried out of the snake pit on a stretcher while EMS performed aggressive CPR.” Sadly, despite the emergency responders’ best efforts, they were unable to save Lorne’s life.
His friend shared: “The overwhelming outpouring of concern and well wishes helps those of us who were fortunate to call him a friend feel a little less lost and alone. Thank you to the concertgoers for that. He was the kindest soul, known to us all as Viking. He will be deeply missed! Please crank up a Metallica song and raise a glass for the Viking! RIP, my dear friend.”
The heavy metal community came together to mourn the loss of one of their own. Chris Caffery, guitarist of Savatage, commented: “I love how you honored him as a ‘family’ member. I’ve always felt that way about the Savatage Legion and all metal fans. We all live our lives as one big family, united through the music and the fans. My condolences to his family and close friends, as the band expressed.”
A fan who attended the concert shared their perspective: “We were in the Snake Pit with him and had no idea this was happening at the time. It’s such a terrible tragedy, but there aren’t many happier places or mindsets to spend your final moments. I’m glad he got to see Metallica hit the stage. Condolences and love to his loved ones. We hope to see you again soon at a Metallica show in his honor.”