METALLICA’s May 7th, 2025 performance at Virginia Tech’s Lane Stadium in Blacksburg was a night to remember, drawing an estimated 60,000 fans for a powerful set under the lights. But aside from the music, another detail quickly caught the internet’s attention: video clips surfaced showing what appear to be armed snipers positioned on the stadium’s rooftops during the show.
The images have sparked widespread discussion online, with some viewers surprised—and even unsettled—by the visible presence of such high-level security. However, experts are quick to point out that this is standard protocol for events of this scale, especially when they take place in open venues or near university campuses.
Large concerts often involve collaboration between local law enforcement, private security teams, and sometimes federal agencies. Visible sniper teams are typically part of an overwatch strategy designed to monitor crowds for potential threats and act only in the event of an emergency.
Given the recent global focus on concert security following past incidents at large venues, organizers have increasingly leaned on proactive measures to ensure safety. There were no reports of disturbances or threats at the METALLICA concert, and most fans left the stadium unaware of the elevated security.
Meanwhile, METALLICA is still on their M72 2025 world tour, with support from acts like PANTERA, SUICIDAL TENDENCIES, LIMP BIZKIT, and ICE NINE KILLS at select shows.
Remaining 2025 dates are as follows:
- May:
- May 11: Columbus, OH – Sonic Temple @ Historic Crew Stadium
- May 23: Philadelphia, PA – Lincoln Financial Field
- May 25: Philadelphia, PA – Lincoln Financial Field
- May 28: Landover, MD – Northwest Stadium
- May 31: Charlotte, NC – Bank of America Stadium1
- June:
- June 3: Atlanta, GA – Mercedes-Benz Stadium
- June 6: Tampa, FL – Raymond James Stadium
- June 8: Tampa, FL – Raymond James Stadium
- June 14: Houston, TX – NRG Stadium
- June 20: Santa Clara, CA – Levi’s Stadium
- June 22: Santa Clara, CA – Levi’s Stadium
- June 27: Denver, CO – Empower Field at Mile High
- June 29: Denver, CO – Empower Field at Mile High2
- July:
- July 5: Birmingham, England – Villa Park
- November:
- Nov 1: Perth, Australia – Optus Stadium
- Nov 5: Adelaide, Australia – Adelaide Oval
- Nov 8: Melbourne, Australia – Marvel Stadium
- Nov 12: Brisbane, Australia – Suncorp Stadium
- Nov 15: Sydney, Australia – Accor Stadium
- Nov 19: Auckland, New Zealand – Eden Park
- December:
- Dec 3: Sakhir, Bahrain – Beyon Al Dana Amphitheatre
- Dec 6: Abu Dhabi, UAE – Yas Island – Abu Dhabi F1 Grand Prix
Source: metaladdicts.com
