As reported Tuesday in the HardRadio HardBoard BBS, original METAL CHURCH frontman DAVID WAYNE was found dead by the door at his house in Seattle. The following statement has been issued via Wayne's official website: "On behalf of DAVID WAYNE'S METAL CHURCH, we would like to express our deepest sorrow in the passing of our metal brother, David Wayne. This is not only a loss for us as a band and his family, but also millions of metalheads throughout the world. David died due to complications from injuries he sustained in a head-on automobile accident several months ago. Along with David's family and friends, we would ask that cards, letters, and flowers be sent to the below address. Additionally, donations are being accepted to help David's family with funeral expenses." David Wayne's Memorial Fund c/o Verna Schielling 1217 North 57th Court Ridgefield, WA 98642. Wayne was last heard of working on material with guitarist Davey Lee (ex-REVEREND) on a new project dubbed David Wayne's Metal Church. Wayne's gritty power metal vocals were made famous on Metal Church's first two albums: 19984's Metal Church and 1986's The Dark. Wayne rejoined the band for the 1999 comeback record Masterpeace, but left the band shortly after. Fans who wish to offer their condolences can do so at www.davidwaynesmetalchurch.com. In addition, The METAL CHURCH website has been updated with the following statement from founder Kurdt Vanderhoof in regards to the death of the band's original singer, David Wayne, who passed away on May 10th. Kurdt's statement reads: "This is a very sad, sad day. At this moment I'm in total shock about this tragedy. I feel the music world has lost a legendary and unique talent. He will be missed greatly by all. My sincere condolences go out to all his friends, family and fans. Godspeed to you, Dave. - Kurdt Vanderhoof."

WebLink: www.davidwaynesmetalchurch.com. RIP David.