A New Jersey incident left a bassist from a popular country-rock band dead after a vehicle pinned him underneath.
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Authorities found Jerry Leach, a member of Not Leaving Sober, on March 10 outside a home in Jefferson Township. He was 32 years old.
Leach was scheduled to perform at The Stone Pony in Asbury Park on April 4.
Country Musician Dies After Tragic Accident in New Jersey
Jefferson Township police responded to a call at approximately 5:04 p.m., where they made the shocking discovery.
Reports say authorities found Leach pinned beneath the rear tire of a vehicle.
Police officers and nearby residents tried to lift the vehicle to free him, but despite their efforts, he died at the scene.
"This devastating news comes as a shock to all of us. Jerry was far more than a bass player to us — he became a brother who we got to know very closely," the band said in a statement.
"This band would never have reached the heights it has without Jerry and his contributions. He loved being a part of the writing process and his signature style is easily recognizable on the songs he wrote and recorded with us."
Investigation Underway as Band Vows to Continue
Authorities confirmed that the Morris County Prosecutor's Office Major Crimes Unit and the Morris County Sheriff's Department Criminal Investigation Division responded to assist with the investigation.
Additionally, The Morris County Medical Examiner's Office also attended the scene.
In a lengthy statement, Not Leaving Sober addressed how the band plans to move forward following Leach's death.
"The reality is, after a tragedy like this, the next few months are going to be extremely tough for all of us," the statement added.
"But we realize that we owe it to Jerry to keep going. Jerry was very clear that he just wanted to see the band succeed and for us, the only way to honor him is to keep that promise."
The band planned its April 4 headline show at The Stone Pony as a single release party for "Welcome to Hell" and to mark its 500th performance.
