Slayer guitarist Jeff Hanneman passed away today aged 49 due to liver failure. Jeff was one of the founding members of the American thrash band, and will certainly be missed by many the world over.

The official statement from the band's Facebook page reads:

Slayer is devastated to inform that their bandmate and brother, Jeff Hanneman, passed away at about 11AM this morning near his Southern California home. Hanneman was in an area hospital when he suffered liver failure. He is survived by his wife Kathy, his sister Kathy and his brothers Michael and Larry, and will be sorely missed.

Our Brother Jeff Hanneman, May He Rest In Peace (1964 - 2013)