AVENGED SEVENFOLD has issued the following statement regarding the passing of the band's drummer, James Owen Sullivan (a.k.a. The Rev):

"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."

According to The Orange County Register, James Owen Sullivan was found dead at his home on Monday (December 28). He was 28 years old.

Sullivan appears to have died of natural causes, Huntington Beach police Lt. John Domingo told The Orange County Register. Police were notified by firefighters who had responded to Sullivan's home about 1 p.m., according to the report.

pictured below:В  Sullivan (left)В with Tangra Mega Rock'sВ Stiff (center) and bass playerВ J. Christ (right).