As you probably know by now, Anthrax were forced to perform this past weekend without guitarist Scott Ian and drummer Charlie Benante. While Ian has since returned to the stage, Gene Hoglan is still filling in on drums while Benante is with his terminally ill mother. And now it turns out that bassist Frank Bello will be sitting out of the remaining tour dates as well.

As many fans may know, Bello is actually Benante’s nephew, and has likewise decided to take a leave of absence so as to spend time with his grandmother (Benante’s mother). Bello also confirmed via Twitter that Armored Saint bassist Joey Vera will be filling in on the remaining dates. Fans may remember that Vera was actually the bassist who replaced Bello left the band in 2004 (only to return in 2005 for the first Belladonna era reunion). Vera also filled in during the band’s 2008 performance Heavy MTL festival when Bello had prior family commitments.

Here’s what Bello had to share via his Twitter account:

“Hey friends-i’m sorry to tell you that i need to go home to be with my grandmother who is very sick, so i wont be playing the next few shows – my good friend joey vera will be filling in for me with Anthrax during this painful time. Please make him feel welcome. I’ll be back asap”

It’s certainly starting to sound like Anthrax’s current tour has been an unlucky one indeed. While it’s great that Vera is able to fill in, we’re still sorry to hear about the circumstances behind it. Once again, our condolences go out to Benante and Bello’s family.