Volume 42, Issue 9. Today is
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Volume 42, Issue 9. Today is
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February 1, 2005
Metal detectors deter weapons Michelle Goats The Dec. 8, 2004, on-stage shooting death of former Pantera guitarist “Dimebag” Darrell Abbott in a small nightclub in Columbus, Ohio, has brought forth several safety concerns for venues across the nation. Abbott, along with former Pantera drummer and brother,Vinnie Abbott, were performing on-stage at the Alrosa Villa with their new project, Damageplan, when a distraught fan opened fire on Abbott and members of the audience, killing Abbott and three others, before a police officer shot the gunner to death. This incident came only two months after rap artist R-Kelly claimed that several fans flashed guns at him while performing on-stage. Although occurrences such as these seem few and far between, is concert security really trained or even equipped to deal with these types of problems? According to some experts, incidents like these could have been prevented for less than $50 per unit, with the use of hand-held metal detectors. If used properly, hand-held metal detectors could prevent patrons from entering a venue with weapons such as guns, knifes and chains, all of which could be used to harm fellow concertgoers. Witnesses said that metal detectors were not used at Alrosa Villa. Some venues won’t implement the use of metal detectors. Although cost would seem the reason, image seems to be the main concern. Some venue owners feel as though concertgoers might fear that because security personnel are using metal detectors, the venue could house potential danger. Local venues such as Glendale Arena, Dodge Theatre and America West Arena do routinely use metal detectors at concert events. According to Glendale Arena General Manager Ron Woodbridge, gate operation is based on the event. Before an act ever sets foots on stage, research is done by analyzing the crowd demographics in order to determine if a more aggressive method of security should be used at the event. “We investigate acts to see how crowds have reacted in the past to a particular act(s),” said Woodbridge. “Incidents like these bring awareness, but we are confident that we are ready to handle these type of situations,” added Woodbridge. “We have to take into consideration the type of crowd and the amount of people present at the event,“ said George Bevans, who heads security for America West Arena and Dodge Theatre. Bevans said that research is necessary to determine which shows will require regular “pat downs” or metal detectors. For example, bands that typically have “mosh pits” would require stiffer security measures. The Valley’s local venues are aware of the potential dangers and aim to keep concertgoers safe.
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