Tampa Police Arrest Suspect After Explosives Found at Raymond James Stadium Parking Lot Before Buccaneers vs. Bills
Tampa, FL – August 23, 2025 — Authorities in Florida arrested a man after explosives and narcotics were discovered in his vehicle at the Raymond James Stadium parking lot, just hours before the Tampa Bay Buccaneers’ preseason matchup against the Buffalo Bills.
The incident occurred at approximately 5 p.m., less than two hours before the scheduled 6:30 p.m. kickoff. Stadium security spotted the suspect behaving suspiciously near a restricted section of the lot and immediately contacted Tampa Police.
When officers arrived, they observed drug paraphernalia in plain sight. A subsequent search uncovered a handgun, crystal meth, and multiple devices resembling explosives. The immediate area was quickly secured, and fans were redirected away from danger.
Bomb squads from the Tampa Police Department and Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office, supported by federal agencies, were dispatched to neutralize the devices. Officials confirmed the materials were rendered safe. No injuries were reported in the incident.
The suspect was identified as Anthony Ramirez, 38, of St. Petersburg, Florida. He now faces multiple charges, including possession of a weapon of mass destruction, possession of methamphetamine, possession of drug paraphernalia, and unlawful possession of a firearm.
Authorities emphasized that the game will proceed as scheduled. Fans entering Raymond James Stadium will encounter heightened security protocols, including additional checkpoints and more rigorous bag inspections.
Officials praised the quick response of stadium security and law enforcement, stressing that swift action contained the threat before large crowds fully gathered. The timing, they noted, could have had far more dangerous consequences.
Ramirez is being held at Hillsborough County Jail without bond. Kickoff between the Buccaneers and Bills is set for 6:30 p.m., with law enforcement maintaining an elevated presence to ensure fan safety throughout the evening.
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