Matt Roberts, former guitarist for the popular rock band 3 Doors Down, has passed away at the age of 38.
Matt’s father, Darrell Roberts, broke the news online just moments ago.
Matt left the band in 2012 due to health issues, but continued to tour with other groups and as a solo artist.
Darrell Roberts tells TMZ that his son Darrell was scheduled to perform in Wisconsin today and rehearsed with other musicians until late last night.
Father and son returned to their hotel, where Darrell says he was woken around 9 am by detectives who informed him that Matt had passed away.
Prescription painkillers were found on the scene.
Darrell says that both he and the authorities believe Matt’s apparent overdose was accidental.
At this time, no official ruling has been made with regard to the cause of death.
The results of a planned autopsy will likely be released next week.
Roberts was with 3 Doors Down when the band rose to international fame with their 2000 hit "Kryptonite."
He stuck with the group for their subsequent best-selling singles "Here Without You" and "When I’m Gone."
The video for the latter song – a tribute to American war veterans – has been viewed more than 40 million times on YouTube:
His musical talents and signature spiked blonde hair made Roberts one of the band’s most popular members.
Darrell Roberts says his son’s fan base remained devoted even after he was forced to leave the band.
He adds that Matt was "deeply beloved" by family and friends and described the loss as "devastating."
Tributes from fans and colleagues began pouring in on social media just minutes after news of Matt’s death was made public.