AVENGED SEVENFOLD's Drummer Dead At 28

James Owen Sullivan, drummer and backup vocalist for AVENGED SEVENFOLD, has been found dead at his home in Southern California, authorities have confirmed.

Police Lt. John Domingo said the 28-year-old Sullivan, who went by the stage name “The Rev”, appears to have died of natural causes on Monday in Huntington Beach. Police were notified by firefighters who had responded to Sullivan's home about 1 p.m. The Orange County coroner's office is investigating the death.

AVENGED SEVENFOLD formed in Huntington Beach in 1999 – Sullivan was a member from the beginning – and won Best New Artist at the MTV Video Music Awards in 2006. According to their MySpace page, the five-man metalcore band was working on their fifth album.

The band released the following statement expressing their sadness: “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.”