THE MARS VOLTA’s Jeremy Michael Ward, 27, was found dead in his Los Angeles home by his roommate on Sunday, May 25th. Ward served as a sound manipulator on all the band’s recordings and live shows and was also an integral part of another AT THE DRIVE-IN offshoot band, DEFACTO. The cause of death has not yet been determined.

Here is an official statement from the band:

“We have collaborated with Jeremy for the past 10 years. He was the driving force of DEFACTO, and an integral part of THE MARS VOLTA, who often went unnoticed because he chose to perform offstage. In addition to music, Jeremy was an incredibly talented writer and painter.

“We are devastated by the loss, but know that Jeremy will continue to be with us in spirit at every show and during the making of every record.”

THE MARS VOLTA’s forthcoming album, De-Loused in the Comatorium, will not be affected and will be released as scheduled on June 24th as previously reported. However, there is no word yet on the status of their touring plans with the RED HOT CHILI PEPPERS.