It is with a heavy heart that we report that Deftones bassist Chi Cheng has passed away at the age of 42. Cheng was involved in a car accident in November of 2008 that had him in a coma for three years and has left him in a paralyzed state ever since. His family released the following statement:
“Our dearest Family,
This is the hardest thing to write to you. Your love and heart and devotion to Chi was unconditional and amazing. I know that you will always remember him as a giant of a man on stage with a heart for every one of you. He was taken to the emegency room and at 3 am today his heart just suddenly stopped. He left this world with me singing songs he liked in his ear.
He fought the good fight.You stood by him sending love daily. He knew that he was very loved and never alone. I will write more later. I will be going through the oneloveforchi and any other information may not be reliable. If you have any stories or messages to share please send them to the onelove site. Please hold Mae and Ming and the siblings and especially Chi’s son, Gabriel in your prayers. It is so hard to let go.
With great love and “Much Respect!” Mom J (and Chi)”
As recently as November, the family of Chi were hoping for positive outcomes, but unfortunately Chi left us. Our deepest condolences to Chi's friends and family.
Update: Read musicians' reactions and tributes to Chi Cheng's passing.
