Sadly already time to add another one to the 2009 death list: Avenged Sevenfold drummer James Owen Sullivan was found dead earlier today in his Huntington Beach home. Sullivan, better known to fans as the Rev, was 28.
According to the OC Register, Sullivan seems to have passed away due to natural causes, as Huntington Beach Lt. John Domingo told the Reg. Police arrived at Sullivan's home around 1 p.m. this afternoon.
Sullivan was a founding member of Avenged Sevenfold (A7X) since its inception in 1999 in Huntington Beach.
Rumors of “heavy” drug usage are swirling, naturally, but stay tuned for further (official) updates.
EDIT: 1:20 A.M. Click after the jump for the official statement released by the band via Facebook.
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JIMMY “THE REV” SULLIVAN
It is with great sadness and heavy
hearts that we tell you of the passing today of Jimmy “The Rev”
Sullivan. Jimmy was not only one of the world's best drummers, but more
importantly he was our best friend and brother. Our thoughts and
prayers go out to Jimmy's family and we hope that you will respect
their privacy during this difficult time.
Jimmy you are forever in our hearts.
We love you.
M Shadows, Synyster Gates, Zacky Vengeance and Johnny Christ