On March 23, the world was shocked to learn of the passing of Gwar front man Dave Brockie. While speculation ran rampant just after the news broke, it has now been officially confirmed that the cause of his death was an accidental overdose of the drug heroin.

CBS 6 of Richmond, Va., broke the news, citing a report from Brockie's home state Medical Examiners Office -- which listed the cause of death as “acute heroin toxicity, means: accident.”

Shortly after Brockie’s death, band manager Jack Flanagan released an official statement saying, “It is with a saddened heart, that I confirm my dear friend Dave Brockie, artist, musician, and lead singer of GWAR passed away at approximately 6:50 PM EST Sunday March 23, 2014. His body was found Sunday by his band mate at his home in Richmond, VA.... My main focus right now is to look after my band mates and his family. More information regarding his death shall be released as the details are confirmed.”

For thirty years, Brockie played the role of Oderus Ungurus in the heavy metal band, which he co-founded in 1984. At the time of his death, Brockie was the sole original member of the group. The group will continue on for at least two performances this summer.

Dave "Oderus Urungus" Brockie Reads 'Goodnight Moon'


-- Corbin Reiff/Ultimate Classic Rock

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