Tragic news in the Black Tusk camp this morning. Following a motorcycle crash with an S.U.V, Black Tusk bassist Jon Athon,32 has now passed away. The motorcycle with both Athon and his girlfriend collided with an S.U.V. Friday November 7th. Both were admitted to Memorial University Medical Centre where girlfriend Emily Boutwell,26 is being treated for her injuries, Jon Athon unfortunately suffered irreparable brain damage and sadly passed yesterday November 9th from his injuries.

The band state : “Doctors told us that he suffered irreparable brain damage shortly after the accident. He has been in a coma and sustained by life support until now.  As per his wishes, we removed Athon from his life support systems and his organs will be donated. His body will be cremated and a memorial is being planned for family and friends in Savannah. He was 32 years old and will be forever missed.”

“Thank you all for your support during this devastating time for us; it would have made him proud.”

Truly a sad day in the metal community, Black Tusk had just returned to the studio to begin writing their follow up to previous 2013 EP. No word on what will happen with the band as of now. A crying shame, The Metalist sends their sincere condolences at this difficult time to all of Athon’s friends and family. R.I.P.