News•August 28, 2013 11:39 AM ET•7,809 views

Eyehategod drummer died from "respiratory failure"

Eyehategod has issued their first statement since the passing of drummer Joey LaCaze. Notably, the band states that the cause of death was respiratory failure (LaCaze suffered from "severe" asthma). Here's what frontman Mike Williams had to say:

"Joseph M. LaCaze, New Orleans native and drummer for EyeHateGod, Mystick Krewe of Clearlight and Outlaw Order passed away on Aug. 23rd in New Orleans after a very successful five week UK and European tour w/ EHG. He also performed ceremonial voodoo drumming and in numerous solo experimental electronic projects. Doctors confirmed to family members the cause as respiratory failure. He also suffered from severe long term asthma. "An account is set up for the benefit of his daughter Lilith LaCaze. Checks can be made payable to the Lilith LaCaze or Joseph LaCaze donation fund at any Capital One Bank in any city."