The death of Casey Calvert, guitarist for post-punk rock band Hawthorne Heights, may have been caused by a preexisting condition related to acute asthma.

 

Calvert was found dead on Saturday, shortly before the band was scheduled for a sound-check that was to precede a Washington, D.C. show. The 26-year-old was reportedly in good spirits the night before and had been spending time with friends before go to bed.

 

Calvert's sound played a big role in Hawthorne Heights and its highly successful second album If Only You Were Lonely which debuted at #3 on the Billboard charts and produced the hit single "Saying Sorry."

 

Toxicology reports have not been released but according to reports Calvert used an inhaler to manage an acute asthma condition.

 

Hawthorne Heights posted a message on their official web site on Saturday notifying fans of Calvert's death, the message stated,

 

"Today is probably the worst day ever. Its with our deepest regrets that we have to write this. Casey Calvert passed away in his sleep last night. We found out this afternoon before sound-check. We've spent the entire day trying to come to grips with this and figure out as much as possible. At this time we're not sure what exactly happened. Just last night he was joking around with everyone before he went to bed. We can say with absolute certainty that he was not doing anything illegal. Please, out of respect to Casey and his family, don't contribute or succumb to any gossip you may hear. We don't want his memory to be tainted in the least. Casey was our best friend. He was quirky and awesome and there will truly be no others like him! His loss is unexplainable. As soon as we know more we will let you know."