Gwar guitarist Cory Smoot has died on the eve of the band's Canadian tour.
The rocker, who performed as Flattus Maximus, was found dead by his bandmates on Thursday morning (03Nov11). He was 34.
A statement from Gwar frontman Dave Brockie reads, "It is with a sense of profound loss and tragedy that the members of Gwar must announce the passing of their long time guitarist and beloved friend Cory Smoot, also known to thousands of metal fans worldwide as Flattus Maximus.
"Cory was found deceased this morning as the band prepared for a border crossing. There is no word as to the cause of death and the members of Gwar are completely shocked and devastated that this has occurred.
"At this point there is no word on arrangements and the disposition of the remainder of Gwar's current North American tour, nor are there any details regarding long term plans. At this point we are just dealing with the loss of our dear friend and brother, one of the most talented guitar players in metal today."
Smoot joined Gwar in 2002 and also fronted solo project the Cory Smoot Experiment.