Gwar guitarist Cory Smoot aka Flattius Maximus was found dead today by his band members. David Brockie, the band’s frontman released a short statement.

“It is with a sense of profound loss and tragedy that the members of Gwar must announce the passing of their longtime guitarist and beloved friend Cory Smoot, also known to thousands of metal fans worldwide as Flattus Maximus. Cory was found deceased this morning as the band prepared for a border crossing.“At this point we are just dealing with the loss of our dear friend and brother, one of the most talented guitar players in metal today.”

The cause of death is as yet unexplained and there has been no decision made about the remainder of the band’s current North American tour dates or the band’s future. 

A full statement will be released over the coming days.