Dave Brockie, better known as Oderus Urungus, frontman of metal band GWAR, died in March of a heroin overdose, according to the Virginia State Medical Examiner’s Office.
WTVR in Virginia reported today that the 50-year-old Brockie “died of an accidental heroin overdose.” The Medical Examiner’s official cause: “acute heroin toxicity, means: accident.”
More from WTVR:
Brockie, was found unresponsive by his roommate in his North Richmond home on March 23. Responding police investigators found evidence of heroin use, but the cause of death wasn’t finalized until toxicology tests were completed.
Close friends told CBS-6 that they had been worried about his behavior and suspected his known penchant for marijuana smoking and partying had taken a bad turn.
He was known as the prime heartbeat and creative leader of a large theatrical troupe popular around the world and twice nominated for a Grammy.
GWAR are carrying on without their frontman. The band will perform at their fifth annual GWAR-B-Q on August 16 at Hadad’s Water Park in Richmond, Virginia. There will be a public memorial and viking funeral for the singer the day before, August 15, at Hadad’s Lake.
GWAR is also in the midst of a campaign to raise money to open up their own restaurant, which will serve “gourmet junk food.” The Indiegogo for GWARBar has raised nearly $13,000 with 18 days remaining.