of avenged sevenfold drummer, jimmy sullivan (aka the rev), dead

Avenged Sevenfold Drummer, James Owen Sullivan ("The Rev"), Found Dead at 28: Avenged Sevenfold drummer James Owen Sullivan (aka "The Rev") was found dead in his Huntington Beach home. He was 28 years old.

Avenged Sevenfold drummer James Owen Sullivan, better known by his stage name "The Rev," was found dead in his Huntington Beach home earlier today on December 28 at approximately 1 p.m., according to the Orange County Register and Blabbermouth. He was 28 years old.

The Orange County Coroner's Office is investigating his death but at this time the SoCal musician is thought to have died of natural causes. However some fans on Blabbermouth are skeptical, claiming the drummer had a history of hard drug use.

Jimmy Sullivan “The Rev”, Avenged Sevenfold Drummer, Dead at 28 [photo via]

The Avenged Sevenfold official website (as well as their MySpace page) posted the following statement,

JIMMY "THE REV" SULLIVAN

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.

[via Celebrity Smack Blog]