Cory Smoot, the lead guitarist for the heavy metal band GWAR, was found dead in the band's tour bus on Thursday. His bandmates reportedly discovered him just as the bus was about to cross the Canadian border for upcoming tour dates. The cause of death has not yet been reported.

David Brockie, GWAR's frontman, provided the following statement about Smoot (aka Flattus Maximus) to Metalsucks.com:

It is with a sense of profound loss and tragedy that the members of GWAR must announce the passing of their long time guitarist and beloved friend Cory Smoot... The members of GWAR are completely shocked and devastated... At this point there is no word on arrangements and the disposition of the remainder of GWAR's current North American tour, nor are there any details regarding long term plans. At this point we are just dealing with the loss of our dear friend and brother, one of the most talented guitar players in metal today. We ask that our fans and the media be respectful of our request for privacy for those that have suffered this terrible loss. A full statement will be coming in the next day or so, in the meantime please give your thoughts and your prayers to Cory, his family, and all the people that love him.

GWAR was formed in Richmond, Va., in 1984. The band's next show was scheduled for Friday, Nov. 4 in Edmonton.

On Oct. 27, GWAR appeared on Late Night With Jimmy Fallon. Below is a clip of their live performance of Hail Genocide!