Brent Hinds, the co-founder of Grammy-winning heavy metal group Mastodon who played with the group for 25 years before his departure earlier this year, died on Wednesday. He was 51.

Brett Hinds of Mastodon has died at the age of 51. The heavy metal musician was killed late Wednesday when he was struck by an SUV, according to police.

Mastodon drummer Brann Dailor delivered a heartfelt tribute to late ex-guitarist Brent Hinds on Friday following the band's performance at the Alaska State Fair in Palmer, Alaska — their first show since Hinds' death.