Mark Reale, guitarist and founding member of US hard-rockers RIOThas passed away due to complications from Crohn's disease. He was fifty-seven years old. He had been in a coma since January 11th as a result of a subarachnoid hemorrhage.

Announcement posted by the band on their official website: "To friends and fans of Mark Reale and Riot, we are deeply saddened to confirm that Mark has lost his battle with a lifelong illness. Your thoughts and prayers are appreciated by Mark's family, friends, and bandmates at this difficult time!"

I, ZARTO, on behalf of the entire METAL TEMPLE Family, would like to offer our condolencestoMark's family and friends, to assure them of our profound sympathy and respect.