On March 23, we lost GWAR vocalist and mastermind Dave Brockie, who performed as the character of Oderus Urungus for over 30 years. Brockie's death was thought to be drug-related due to evidence found at the scene of his death, and unfortunately, it's just been confirmed that he died from an accidental heroin overdose.

The news was reported by CBS 6 in Richmond, Va., earlier today (June 3). According to Virginia's State Medical Examiner's Office, Brockie died from acute heroin toxicity by accidental means. He was found unresponsive in his North Richmond home by a roommate.

Friends of the metal veteran told CBS 6 that they had been worried about Brockie's behavior and "suspected his known penchant for marijuana smoking and partying had taken a bad turn." CBS, however did not post any quotes and did not specify how long Brockie had been using heroin.

Dave Brockie's death occurred shortly after GWAR had announced the fifth annual GWAR-B-Q, an event that Brockie had hoped would become one of America's biggest yearly rock and metal festivals. Despite Brockie's passing, the GWAR-B-Q will go on as scheduled and GWAR will perform with Mike Bishop, who was the first to take on the character of Beefcake the Mighty, on vocals. Additionally, a public funeral will be held for Brockie on Aug. 15, the day before this year's GWAR-B-Q.

Tickets for the fifth annual GWAR-B-Q will go on sale June 6. To grab tickets to the event, click here.

Check Out Our Dave Brockie Memorial Playlist of Loudwire Exclusive Videos

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