Wayne Swinny, the guitarist for the band Saliva, has died at the age of 59 after experiencing a spontaneous brain hemorrhage while on tour.
The musician, who was the only remaining member of the band's original line-up, had played in Nashville the night before and been due to perform in Pittsburgh on Tuesday but was found in "medical distress" and rushed to hospital.
The Grammy-nominated Tennessee rock band confirmed the tragic news that Swinny had died in a statement on Facebook, telling fans on Wednesday: "It is with great sadness that we report the passing of our brother Wayne Swinny.
"Wayne passed away this afternoon from a spontaneous brain hemorrhage while we were out on tour. Details for the funeral arrangements will be announced shortly. Wayne will be missed by all those who knew him. We love you Wayne."
Saliva had been on their Spring Mayhem tour when Swinny fell ill and was rushed to hospital, where he was taken straight into intensive care.
Swinny was the final remaining founding member of the band, having been part of Saliva since it formed in 1996, with bassist Dave Novotny leaving the band in 2015 and singer Josey Scott quitting in 2011.
Lead singer Bobby Amaru said via TMZ: "I’m not even sure what to think or how to feel right now. My heart aches for Wayne’s family, his friends, and anyone who had the joy of being around him.
"My heart aches for his daughter Nikki. He loved that little girl so much ... He would go out of his way to make sure you had a good time. I’m grateful that I got to share almost 12 years of my life with Wayne on the stage and most importantly off the stage."
Amaru added: "He was the older brother I never had. I learned so much from him and we had a f***ing blast together! I will cherish it all for the rest of my life! God Bless you Wayne. I know we’ll meet again!!"
Just six hours before they shared the news of Swinny's death, the band's account had told fans: "Our dear brother Wayne Swinny was discovered Tuesday morning in medical distress and paramedics were called.
"He was transported to a hospital where he was diagnosed with a Spontaneous Hemorrhage in his brain. He is currently in the ICU as we await further news. We ask that you keep him in your thoughts and prayers at this time."
Musician Jay Gearhart had commented: "This breaks my heart. He was such an amazing dude. Rest in peace uncle wayway."
Band Shallowpoint also paid tribute, writing: "Beyond sad to hear this. We played with you guys a few years ago and he hung out with us after the show. Super friendly fun guy. He will be greatly missed."
Our thoughts are with Wayne Swinny's family, friends, and bandmates at this difficult time.
Featured image credit: Military Collection / Alamy