GWAR GUITARIST FLATTUS MAXIMUS FOUND DEAD

Gwar is a satirical heavy metal band formed in Richmond, Virginia, in 1984. The band is best known for its elaborate science fiction/horror film inspired costumes, obscene lyrics and graphic stage performances, which feature humorous enactments of politically and morally taboo themes.

On November 3, 2011, GWAR guitarist Cory Smoot, who had portrayed Flattus Maximus since 2002, was found dead by his fellow band members in the band's tour bus as they prepared to cross the border into Manitoba, Canada from North Dakota, U.S.A. At the time of the announcement, no formal statement concerning the circumstances of his demise nor of the future of the band had been made.