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Irish band Big Generator mourn 'the saddest day' as drummer Tony Rice is killed in deadly car accident

IRISH band Big Generator said yesterday was 'the saddest day' in their 20-year history, as drummer Tony Rice lost his fight for life.

The 26-year-old drummer was left seriously injured after a single car collision Killimor, Co. Galway in the early hours of Thursday morning.

The accident occurred at 2.45am at Coolagh, Gurtymadden when Mr Rice's car collided with a concrete barrier.

Mr Rice had been living in in Woodford, Co. Galway.

He was taken to University College Hospital Galway and placed in intensive care where he died yesterday afternoon.

Mr Rice was surrounded by the band, his family and friends when he passed away.

Mr Rice was the newest member of the long-running Irish band, based in Portumna, Co. Galway.

On the band's website Mr Rice is described as "one of the most naturally talented drummers we've ever met."

His biog said: "Tony lives, eats and sleeps drums and is strongly influenced by drummers such as Travis Barker, Mike Portnoy, Daniel Adair and Tommy Lee."

On Facebook, band members wrote about their devastation on hearing the news.

"This is officially the saddest day in Big G history", they wrote.

"We are devastated to have to announce that we lost our musical brother & friend Tony Rice today in a tragic car accident...Tony was pure raw talent and truly lived for his drums, we are upset beyond words and all our thoughts are with his family at this time.... Tony our hearts are broken. We miss ya brother. RIP."

The post has received thousands of comments and shares on Facebook.

Tony was pure raw talent and truly lived for his drums, we are upset beyond words and all our thoughts are with his family at this time

Dolores Kenneally wrote: "Tony, your mam let me hold you on the day you were born and you were always the nicest, friendliest,most good-natured lad that I ever had the pleasure of watching grow up. May Your Gentle Soul Rest in Peace Tony."

Fellow musician Philip Cassidy said: "I am so shocked to hear this. I had the pleasure of doing a once of gig with Tony a few years back in Donegal. He made me feel very welcome and was so easy to get on with. He was a lovely guy and a truly gifted, intuitive drummer. This breaks my heart. Condolences to his friends and family. So sorry for your loss lads."