Avenged Sevenfold Drummer James 'The Rev' Sullivan Found Dead at 28

Avenged Sevenfold Drummer James 'The Rev' SullivanCalifornia rockers Avenged Sevenfold have confirmed the passing of founding member and drummer James 'The Rev' Sullivan. He was found dead at his home on Dec. 28, and police believe he died from natural causes. Sullivan was 28 years old.

"It is with great sadness and heavy hearts that we tell you of the passing today of Jimmy 'The Rev' Sullivan," the band says in a statement confirming their drummer's death. "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."

The Orange County Register was the first media outlet to report on Sullivan's unexpected death. Police were notified by firefighters who'd responded to Sullivan's home at approximately 1 PM PT. He is survived by a wife.

The Orange County Coroner's Office will be looking into what exactly caused the death. Avenged Sevenfold recently finished tracking their fifth album. In 2005, the band broke out from the underground with their major label debut 'City of Evil.'

Fans of the band took to social networking sites late Monday to express their condolences. Papa Roach, via Facebook, commented that it was "a sad day for rock and roll" and said Sullivan "would be greatly missed."



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mcrforeverr

what the heck how can he die from natural causes???????? britney murphey also died from natural causes and shes only 4 years odler than The rev. how is this possible? The rev, u will forever be in our hearts and never be forgotten. no one will forget your awesome drumming. many others are greiving with us like papa roach and mcr........ Good luck in the afterlife we will remember you. We love you

December 30 2009 at 10:29 AM Report abuse rate up rate down Reply
gsfan01

RIP Jimmy. You will be missed greatly. My prayers are with his family and with the band.

December 30 2009 at 1:00 AM Report abuse rate up rate down Reply
Sierra

the rev was an amazing drummer, he also was a master mind lyricist. It is a sad day for music, he will be missed terribly

December 30 2009 at 12:41 AM Report abuse rate up rate down Reply
Jilian

Rev, I have many things to say of your...unfortunate passing. One of them, however...is...

WHYYYYY!!!??

(only really meaningful if you've seen their 'all excess' DVD....if you have, please, laugh with me through this really sad day...)

December 29 2009 at 10:34 PM Report abuse rate up rate down Reply
markrphotoman

Rip Rev. You're probably laughing with Bonzo and Moonie right now. Thanks for all the drum licks you taught my son!

December 29 2009 at 9:53 PM Report abuse rate up rate down Reply
Kimmy Sue

grrrrrrr cant believe hez gone

December 29 2009 at 9:31 PM Report abuse rate up rate down Reply
xhunterx21x

im sorry A7X to all Jimmys family and friends R.I.P Jimmy "The Rev" Sullivan...

December 29 2009 at 9:15 PM Report abuse rate up rate down Reply
jedivees1

its pretty sad such a young man had to go so early.........just does not make any sence!!!!

December 29 2009 at 8:18 PM Report abuse rate up rate down Reply
Jeffrey

R.I.P Mr.Sullivan,I will keep you,and your family in my thoughts.

December 29 2009 at 7:19 PM Report abuse rate up rate down Reply
WebChick

Rest in peace. A lot of times this kind of stuff is brought on by heavy drug use. Makes me wonder when people will figure out that that shit is dangerous and pointless. Damn shame.

December 29 2009 at 7:05 PM Report abuse rate up rate down Reply