James Owen Sullivan, drummer for the group Avenged Sevenfold, went by the stage name “The Rev,” was found dead Monday at his home in Huntington Beach.
The coroner’s office is investigating the death; however O.C. police say that it appears that he died of natural causes.
Avenged Sevenfold, which was an Orange County-based group, formed in 1999. They were named Best New Artist in a Video for “Bat Country” at the 2006 MTV Video Music Awards.
The band members left this message on their website:
“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”
Sullivan is survived by his wife, Leana Silver. He was 28.