Black Tusk’s Jonathan Athon Dies Following Motorcycle Crash
Update -11/9, 5PM ET: Very sad news, as we've just received a press release stating that Jonathan Athon has died following injuries he sustained in the motorcycle accident described below. The story has been updated with the tragic news.
Tough news out of Savannah, Ga., where Black Tusk bassist-vocalist Jonathan Athon has died after he and his girlfriend, Emily Boutwell, were in a serious motorcycle accident on Friday night (Nov. 7).
The 32-year-old musician (pictured center in band photo above) was driving the motorcycle with his girlfriend as a passenger, when they crashed into the side door of an Acura driven by an 85-year-old man, according to news station WTOC.
A statement from the band's publicist reads as follows:
It is with deep regret and saddened hearts that we must tell you that Athon passed away this morning from injuries sustained from his motorcycle accident. Doctors told us that he suffered irreparable brain damage shortly after the accident. He has been in a coma and sustained by life support until now. As per his wishes, we removed Athon from his life support systems and his organs will be donated. His body will be cremated and a memorial is being planned for family and friends in Savannah. He was 32 years old and will be forever missed. Thank you all for your support during this devastating time for us, it would have made him proud.
Prior to news of his passing Athon was in critical condition and had been placed in a medically induced coma so doctors can monitor his injuries. His girlfriend is coherent and escaped serious injury. A post yesterday on Black Tusk's Facebook page read as follows:
Last night Athon and his Girlfriend Emily were involved in a serious motorcycle accident. Its my understanding that a car ran a stop sign in front of them and they had no chance to avoid a collision. He is currently in the ICU, and the doctors have him in an induced coma to monitor his injuries. Emily is currently coherent and recovering in the hospital. The doctors are telling us that all we can do know is wait and see. We will post updates as they become available.
Black Tusk formed in 2005 and have released four albums and three EPs. The sludge metal band is often associated with fellow Savannah acts Baroness and Kylesa. In fact, Baroness frontman John Baizley has created the artwork for most of the band's recordings.
We'd like to send our condolences to the family, friends and bandmates of Jonathan Athon during this difficult time.
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