The former lead guitarist of popular heavy metal band Mastodon has died in tragic circumstances.

William Brent Hinds died after the driver of a BMW SUV failed to yield while making a U-turn, crashing into the rocker’s Harley Davidson in Atlanta on Wednesday about 11.30pm, according to local news outlets.

Police have ruled the death as accidental, according to Atlanta News First .

Mastodon has paid tribute to their former bandmate on social media, writing they are in a state of “unfathomable sadness and grief”.

“We are heartbroken, shocked, and still trying to process the loss of this creative force with whom we’ve shared so many triumphs, milestones, and the creation of music that has touched the hearts of so many.

“Our hearts are with Brent’s family, friends, and fans. At this time

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