Kennedys drummer DH Pelligro has died aged 63, the band has announced

The Dead Kennedys have announced that longtime drummer DH Peligro, who also briefly joined the Red Hot Chili Peppers, has died at the age of 63.

In accordance with the punk band’s official Instagram accountPelligra died of a blow to the head after a fall at his home in Los Angeles on Friday.

“Police at the scene said he died of head trauma from an accidental fall,” the band wrote. “The arrangements are pending and will be announced in the coming days. We ask that you respect the family’s privacy at this difficult time.”

The band thanked fans for their condolences.

Peligro, born Darren Henley, joined the Dead Kennedys in 1981 and replaced original drummer Bruce “Ted” Slesinger. After the band broke up in 1986, he briefly joined the Red Hot Chili Peppers.

Red Hot Chili Peppers founder and bandmate Flea called Peligro a “dear friend” and “brother” on social media.

“I’m devastated today, a river of tears, but for the rest of my life I will cherish every second,” he wrote on Instagram. “The first time I saw you play with DK in 1981, you blew me away. Power, soul, recklessness. You have become my favorite friend, so many times of all kinds… you live forever in our hearts, you are a wild person, you are a bringer of joy, you are a person with a big heart.”

It was one of many social media tributes to fellow rocker Alice in Chains guitarist William Duvall calling him “the hero of the drums”.” and Superchunk drummer John Wurster praising him as “One of the absolute greats”.

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