Former Saint Vitus drummer Armando Acosta passed away on Thanksgiving Day (November 25). He was 58 years old. Saint Vitus has released the following statement to Blabbermouth regarding the passing of their former member:

“It is with great regret that we announce a great loss to the world of heavy metal with the passing of former Saint Vitus drummer Armando Acosta. Armando’s last show with Saint Vitus was April 29, 2009 in Stuttgart, Germany.

Armando had been struggling with health issues over the years but came back into the Vitus fold for one last hurrah by headlining Roadburn [festival in Tilburg, Holland] in 2009 and playing a handful of European dates directly after the festival. Henry Vasquez replaced Armando Acosta in 2009, making his debut on the main stage at Hellfest [in Clisson, France].

The December 2010 SAINT VITUS tour will be dedicated to our old friend, Armando Acosta. R.I.P., brother!!!”

Acosta had been the drummer of Saint Vitus since the legendary doom band’s formation in 1979, then under the name Tyrant. Though he had been a part of their reunions since breaking up in 1996, the band parted ways with Acosta when it became clear his health problems were taking a toll for the worse. Our condolences go out to Acosta’s family and friends.