Slayer guitarist Jeff Hanneman has passed away as a result of liver failure at the age of 49. Indications are that Hanneman passed away this morning at a Southern California hospital. The band has issued the following statement:
"Slayer is devastated to inform that their bandmate and brother, Jeff Hanneman, passed away at about 11AM this morning near his Southern California home. Hanneman was in an area hospital when he suffered liver failure. He is survived by his wife Kathy, his sister Kathy and his brothers Michael and Larry, and will be sorely missed.
"Our Brother Jeff Hanneman, May He Rest In Peace (1964 – 2013)"
As you're likely aware, Hanneman has been sidelined since being bitten by a spider in early-2011.
UPDATE: According to the Washington Post, Slayer spokeswoman Heidi Robinson-Fitzgerald said "it's believed the spider bite contributed to the failure of Hanneman's liver, but it is unclear whether an autopsy will be scheduled."
The Post also states that Hanneman had recently begun writing new material with the band.74 Comments
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