Allen Blickle dead: Rock icon dies aged 42 as band pays emotional tribute

Baroness drummer Allen Blickle has died at the age of 42. The heavy metal drummer shot to fame as the founding drummer of the band, who has since posted a statement after his death. His cause of death reportedly remains unknown. Fellow band member John Baizley said online: "It breaks my heart to have to share the news that my dear friend, creative partner and former bandmate Allen Blickle passed away a few days ago. I'm still in shock that he's gone. We ask for understanding as his family and this band process his passing and grieve his loss. Allen, I love you and miss you."

Baroness, formed in 2003 in Savannah, also included Summer Welch, a bassist, and Tim Loose, a guitarist. Allen was in the band for a decade before he departed and was replaced by Sebastian Thomson.

His death comes just more than 10 years after Allen was involved in a bus crash. In August 2012, Allen was on tour with his bandmates when their tour bus plunged 30 feet down a viaduct.

He only suffered a broken vertebrae and opened up about the ordeal a year later in an interview, where he recalled: "It made me rethink a lot in my life and has been the most difficult time I've been through thus far."

Allen added: "It was a horrible memory, but I'm trying not to let it define me or stop me from doing what I love. Let it be and keep moving."

One devastated fan left a tribute on X saying: "rest in chaos Allen Blickle. Baroness changed heavy music forever... your beats will echo in the darkness."

Replying to John's emotional tribute on Instagram, a fan commented: "I was heartbroken to hear about your loss. It's truly a sad day for everyone who knew him and the amazing music you created together. The albums you made will always be a testament to your special bond and friendship. My deepest condolences to you and his family. Much love to you amigo and to the Baroness family."

Another also typed: "Absolutely rocked by this, so I can only imagine how much harder it's hitting out your way. What a dude... Always here if you need anything throughout this loss and heavy grief."