Metal Church frontman Mike Howe dies aged 55

Metal Church have announced that their two-time vocalist Mike Howe has passed away at the age of 55.

The California heavy metallers – whom Mike fronted between 1988 to 1995, and from 2015 to the present day – shared the tragic news on their Facebook, stating that he died in his home in Eureka, California. No cause of death has been announced.

“It is with our deepest regrets that we must announce the passing of our brother, our friend and true legend of heavy metal music," reads the statement.

"Mike Howe passed away this morning at his home in Eureka, California. We are devastated and at a loss for words. Please respect our privacy and the Howe family’s privacy during this most difficult time.”

Mike's former band, thrash metallers Heretic, also wrote: "Saddened to hear of the the passing of former Heretic vocalist Mike Howe. RIP."

Kerrang!’s thoughts are with Mike's family, friends, bandmates and all who knew him.