"Avenged Sevenfold" Drummer Dies Suddenly, Autopsy Pending

HUNTINGTON BEACH -- An autopsy was pending Tuesday on the body of Jimmy "The Rev" Sullivan, the drummer for the hard rock band Avenged Sevenfold, who died suddenly Monday.

Sullivan, 28, was found unresponsive at his Huntington Beach home, authorities said, adding it appeared he died of natural causes.

Orange County coroner's investigators said the investigation was ongoing.

Avenged Sevenfold issued a statement on its Web site Monday.

"It is with great sadness and heavy hearts that we tell you of the passing today of Jimmy `The Rev' Sullivan," the statement said.

"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 you will respect their privacy during this difficult time."

Sullivan is survived by his wife, Leana MacFadden.

By Tuesday morning, a Facebook page for Avenged Sevenfold had received more than 4,900 comments in response to a posting about Sullivan's death.

Avenged Sevenfold was formed 10 years ago in Huntington Beach and achieved a measure of mainstream success with the 2005 album "City of Evil." The band was subsequently named "Best New Artist" at the 2006 MTV Video Music Awards for its visual rendering of the song "Bat Country."

RIP