Static-X Frontman Passes Away Aged 48

The frontman of inactive veteran industrial metal outfit Static-X, Wayne Static, has passed away at the age of 48.

The news was confirmed early this afternoon (AEST) initially via Static's publicists, according to reports, before messages corroborating the news were posted to the Facebook pages of both his former band and his solo account.

"Platinum selling musician Wayne Richard Wells, better known as WAYNE STATIC, passed away at the age of 48," the post reads. "WAYNE STATIC was the enigmatic former frontman and namesake of Static-X, who later forged a successful solo career. Wayne was scheduled to co-headline tours with Powerman 5000 and Drowning Pool over the next several months.

"No additional information is available at this time."

Static, whose real name was Wayne Richard Wells, co-founded Static-X in 1994. The band weinnt on to release six studio full-lengths in the decade from 1999 to 2009 before splitting up in 2010. Following Static's expansion into solo work, which yielded debut lone effort Pighammer in 2011, Static-X enjoyed a brief reunion between 2012 and 2013.

The wider music community has been swift to react to the news on social media, with several contemporaries and industry personalities expressing their sadness over the loss.

"FUCK.....SAD NEWS..... My friend Wayne Static has passed away," 9Electric drummer Micah Electric wrote on Facebook. "So glad to have known him, recorded with him, toured with him, partied with him and had MANY real conversations with him. He was a good soul who chose the wrong path. He will be missed."

"Rest in peace Wayne I'm speechless right now I'm loosing to many of my friends I'll see you on the other side brother," Korn frontman Jonathan Davis wrote on his page, while Disturbed's band page lamented, "It is with a heavy heart that we say goodbye to our old friend Wayne Static. RIP."

The Queensland-bred bassist for Static-X (2012-13), as well as Static's solo endeavour, Andy Cole, also offered a hearfelt message on his Facebook page:

"My heart is aching. Wayne was my friend and my mentor. As with many others, I am a nobody that he gave a chance. Despite the circumstances may his legacy as an innovator and an all round good guy live on forever. I still believe in you Wayne. I was truly blessed to play with you. See you on the other side my brother."