Taylor Hawkins’ death may have been caused by drugs, local police forces have said.
The Foo Fighters drummer died aged 50 in a hotel room, north of the capital Bogota hours before the legendary rock group were due to appear on stage in front of thousands of fans.
Hours before his death, he had reportedly been complaining of chest pains to staff at his hotel.
In a statement, the Metropolitan Police of Bogota, said: “The cause of death has yet to be established.
“According to those close to him, the death could be related to the consumption of drugs.”
The group confirmed the news to their fans in an emotional post, saying they were “devastated” by the heartbreaking news.
(Image: Getty Images for The Rock and Roll Hall of Fame)
Shortly after his death, El Tiempo reported that relatives claimed his death “could be associated with the consumption of narcotic substances.”
In a statement, the group said: “The Foo Fighters family is devastated by the tragic and untimely loss of our beloved Taylor Hawkins.
“His musical spirit and infectious laughter will live on with all of us forever.
“Our hearts go out to his wife, children and family, and we ask that their privacy be treated with the utmost respect in this unimaginably difficult time.”
(Image: FilmMagic)
They have since announced they would not be performing at Festival Estéreo Picnic in the capital while they grieve the loss of their drummer and close friend.
Since his death was announced, celebrities across the world have paid tribute on social media.
The Prince of Darkness, Ozzy Osbourne said: “Taylor Hawkins was truly a great person and an amazing musician. My heart, my love and my condolences go out to his wife, his children, his family, his band and his fans. See you on the other side – Ozzy.”
(Image: Getty Images)
While Ringo Starr added: “God bless Taylor peace and love to all his family and the band peace and love.”
Former Oasis rocker Liam Gallagher typed: “Absolutely devastated to hear the sad news about Taylor Hawkins my thoughts and prayers are with his family and friends RIP brother LG x.”
The official band account for Nickelback shared: “In utter disbelief at the news of Taylor Hawkins. Our deepest condolences to his family, his bandmates, his team, his friends and everyone that was ever touched by the music he created with @foofighters @Alanis and so many others. This is so incredibly sad.”
(Image: Getty Images)
In 2001, Hawkins was rushed to hospital while in London and was subsequently placed in a two coma following a drug overdose.
He told Kerrang magazine: “Everyone has their own path and I took it too far.
“I was partying in London one night, and I mistakenly did something and it changed everything. I believed the bulls**t myth of live hard and fast, die young.”
“I’m glad it got knocked on the head at that point. I wouldn’t take anything away that I’ve done or been through either, because it’s all part of the trip and the journey. I’m trying to be as candid as I can be. I go mountain biking now.”
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Source: Celebrities - dailystar.co.uk
