Metallica Pays Tribute to a Fan Who Died at One of Their Concerts

Metallica posted a tribute on their social media accounts yesterday to a fan who sadly passed away at one of their concerts in Edmonton, Alberta, Canada this past Friday. The fan, whose name was Lorne but was also known as “Viking,” was in the VIP area known as the Snake Pit at the front of the concert when he taken out on a stretcher by EMS who proceeded to attempt CPR on Viking, but, ultimately, he still passed away. To be clear, this isn’t one of those stories where the band is being blamed for the death of the fan in question, as one of Viking’s friends posted to a Metallica fan Facebook group that the deceased man suffered from an undisclosed medical condition that led to his death.

Metallica, upon hearing about Viking’s death, posted the following tribute to him on their social media accounts:

“Friday night, August 23rd, in Edmonton we lost a Metallica family member at the show.

“He died due to health conditions. Leaving the earthly body and onto the next adventure. Very sad when death happens, but we’re touched that he spent some of his final, hopefully joyful, time with us.

“Our condolences to the family and friends of Lorne ‘Viking.’

“With Love and Respect,

Metallica”

As sad as Viking’s death is, there’s something to be said for dying while doing what you love, and Viking definitely did that. Dying during a Metallica concert is tragic, but it’s also possibly the most metal way to die. Here’s hoping that it gives Viking bragging rights in the afterlife. I feel like St. Peter might give you a high five for that one.

But seriously, though, we’d like to extend our deepest condolences to Lorne’s friends and family. May he rest in power.