The rocker passed away on Friday (20Mar15), aged 55, and now Snider has taken to Twitter to alert fans to the cause of death.

In a statement following news of the drummer's passing, the singer wrote, "A.J. was the final piece in a band that would become an international sensation and one of the greatest live rock acts to ever hit the stage. His sledgehammer assault on the drums helped drive Twisted Sister and I to greatness and inspired me to rock every single show.

"My heart breaks knowing I will never feel the power of his beat behind me, or turn to see his face smiling broadly from the sheer joy he got from doing what he loved. I will always remember that smile."