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Sacramento Band 'Deftones' Bassist, Chi Cheng Dead At 42

(RADIO.COM) - Despite recent signs of improvement in his condition, Deftones bassist Chi Cheng passed away unexpectedly early Saturday morning.

The 42-year old Sacramento-based musician had been in a coma-like semi conscious state since a 2008 car accident left him badly injured. Not wearing his sat belt, Cheng was ejected from the vehicle during a high-speed head-on collision.

According to a statement posted to oneloveforchi.com, Cheng's mother (Mom J) said his heart had stopped.

Mom J shared the family's sentiments. "This is the hardest thing to write to you, she began. "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."

Cheng was taken to the emergency room and at 3:00 a.m. Saturday, after his heart suddenly stopped. He left this world with me singing songs he liked in his ear."

"Deftones" (credit: Last.FM)

 

For those that wish to share their thoughts of Chi, his family is encouraging fans to direct messages directly to the onelove website.

A candlelight vigil will be held in Sacramento's Cesar Chavez Park Sunday night, April 14 at 6:30 p.m.

(Copyright 2013 by CBS San Francisco. All Rights Reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.)

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