The rock world was saddened over the weekend to hear the news that Deftones bassist Chi Cheng had passed away. The musician died after spending four years in either a coma or semi-conscious state as the result of a devastating 2008 car accident. After reactions and condolences from many in the rock community, the first official statement from Deftones themselves came today via a message from the band's guitarist Stephen Carpenter.

As previously reported, Cheng died at the age of 42 on Saturday (April 13) and rock acts such as Slash, Godsmack, Shinedown, David Draiman and many others paid respect to Chi Cheng via Twitter.

On behalf of Deftones, guitarist Stephen Carpenter posted a message on the band's Facebook page today (April 15) to the band's devoted fans:

There are so many things I can say, and yet at this moment, none of it matters or compares to the loss everyone feels. There will be a hole in our lives where Chi once was. But that will be filled everyday with all of our love and memories we all have in our heart. He will always be here because of love. It's time we all give our love and best, and do our best to love. Especially ourselves, Chi would want that for everyone. All our healing will begin with love. I love you, Chi.
Stephen, for Deftones

After taking a break following Cheng's car accident, Deftones regrouped and tapped Sergio Vega to play bass in the band. They have since released the albums 'Diamond Eyes' and 'Koi No Yokan,' but continued to support and honor Cheng throughout the past four years.

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