After spending thirty years rocking out with the band Slayer, guitarist Jeff Hanneman passed away on Thursday (May 2).

According to a statement on the band's Facebook page, "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)."

Along with fellow guitarist Kerry King, Jeff formed the legendary metal band in 1981, going on to earn two Grammy awards for Best Metal Performance.

Two years ago, the 49-year-old musician contracted a rare skin tissue disease called necrotizing fasciitis, though it's not clear if it contributed to his liver failure.