Shocking news came down this weekend that Static-X frontman Wayne Static (Wayne Richard Wells) had passed away at the age of 48. He reportedly died in his sleep on the evening of October 31st. Former Static-X bassist Tony Campos, now with Soulfly, has issued the following statement:

"I'm having a hard time finding the words to express how I feel right now, and it's taken me a long time to even try to write something.

I knew Wayne for 15 years. Some of the best times of my life were with him. I considered him a good friend. It's sad the way our friendship ended, but even more sad that we never got to settle things between us.

Even though we were no longer friends the last five years, I held on to a sliver of hope that my old friend would come back. We were like family: Koichi Fukuda, Nick Oshiro, Erik Fincher, Bruce Reiter, Brandon Webster, Dinkus Maximus, Royal Jensen; we all just wanted our old friend back. Sadly, that'll never happen.

I feel so horrible for his parents and his brother and sisters. I can't even begin to imagine what they must be going through. My deepest condolences go out to them. All we can do now is remember the good times we all shared.

Rest in peace, Wayne."

Although he had a history of drug abuse, Wayne's death is not believed to be drug related. More official information about his passing will be released in the following days.

The metal community has expressed its shock and sadness over Wayne's passing:

DJ Ashba (Guns N' Roses, Sixx:A.M.): "You will truly be missed. God bless your family, friends and fans in this moment of sadness."

Dino Cazares (Fear Factory): "He's a legend, a great guy and songwriter. It sucks to lose a friend to something that you wish you could've helped him for. R.I.P. Wayne Static."

Jonathan Davis (Korn): "Rest in peace, Wayne. I'm speechless right now. I'm losing too many of my friends. I'll see you on the other side, brother."

Miguel "Meegs" Rascon (Coal Chamber): "Wayne, this was the one photo taken when we were on tour with you with We Are The Riot. So happy I have this. You were part of the nu metal movement that shaped the metal scene in L.A. with Coal Chamber and countless others. We were a scene. Untouchable. Family. Hungry... I will miss you, brother. RIP. I'm your homeboy forever, wherever you are. Much love."

David Ellefson (Megadeth): "Just horrible news here. Condolences to the Static X organization and family. I have such great memories of our tours together."