This year just keeps getting worse, in terms of legendary deaths. This time, we are sad to report the extremely sudden passing of ex-Megadeth drummer Nick Menza. According to reports, Menza collapsed during the third song of OHM's set (Menza's band with ex-Megadeth guitarist Chris Poland) at The Baked Potato in Studio City, California. Menza suffered a massive heart attack. He was rushed to the hospital and was pronounced dead.
Chris' wife, Anabella Poland, broke the news by posting on Facebook:
Dear Nick Menza,
You were taken too soon and i feel strongly that your time was not due. I feel there is so much need for you, your craft (not just music but all the arts you were so passionate about) and your amazing sense of humor to be part of this world. Someone up in heaven made a mistake. It has to be a mistake. A huge mistake. I will miss you dearly. #RIPNickMenzaLove you brother! Make sure you make enough noise up there. When it thunders, I'll think of you.
A fan who was in attendance tells Blabbermouth "it appeared to be a seizure but [Nick] stopped breathing. Two patrons took over and began CPR until EMS arrived. EMS worked on him for 25-plus minutes, including adrenaline shots, three shocks and non-stop compressions."
Nick Menza was in the news last year, when there was consideration in reuniting with Megadeth. Menza drummed on some of the band's biggest albums including Rust In Peace, Countdown To Extinction, Youthanasia, and Cryptic Writings. Coincidentally, all of his former bandmates have since spoken out:
TELL ME THIS ISN'T TRUE! I woke at 4 AM to hear Nick Menza passed away on 5/21 playing his drums w/Ohm at the Baked Potato. #nickmenzarip
— Dave Mustaine (@DaveMustaine) May 22, 2016
Who, Greg? Please let me know if you hear from him. I am gutted, https://t.co/yEQL0LEFWZ
— Dave Mustaine (@DaveMustaine) May 22, 2016
Condolences to the Nick Menza family and friends. We have lost a gentle giant… A true artist and friend to us all. #ripnickmenza
— David Ellefson (@ellefsondavid) May 22, 2016
