The metal community was shaken to its core last month with the tragic news that Hellyeah member and ex-Pantera drummer Vinnie Paul had passed away aged 54 on the 22nd of June 2018 inviting countless heartfelt tributes from all corners of the community.
At the time of writing, not much has been revealed about the cause of death, yet official reports have confirmed that his death “did not appear suspicious”. Meanwhile, sources at the Las Vegas Review-Journal makes the claim that Paul died of a major heat attack, whilst other sources at TMZ, claim he peacefully passed “during his Sleep”. However, representatives from Paul’s management have since told Loudwire: “we have no knowledge of who spoke with TMZ. Whoever spoke to them did so on their own and not based on any factual information or authorisation from Vinnie’s family or Pantera management.” His representatives continue, “When they are, an updated official statement will be released. The family request you please respect their privacy during this time”.
Marking the first real break from the official line, Rita Haney, Darrell’s girlfriend, reached out to express her gratitude. "It has taken me a while to reach out and thank everyone for all of their love and support[,] for just thinking of me[,] means the world[.] [M]y apologies for being so tardy," she wrote. "Thank you all. I wish I could put into words what Dime and Vinnie mean to me ... but the emotions are so much more powerful than anything that I could ever say. I love you two so differently but yet both so dearly. [Y]ou both carried me through your lives and gave me your all[.] I will always love you both and I will always fly your flag strong and proud[.]"
Whist we wait for more news, I will leave you with a statement from former Pantera frontman Phil Anselmo who stated at Paul’s memorial that “Vince, always have love in my heart for you, man, rest in peace”.