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How did Andy Chaves die? Internet mourns 32-year-old Katastro singer's tragic demise

The rockstar's untimely death was confirmed by his bandmates on Instagram

Rock singer Andy Chaves died in a horrific vehicle accident on Thursday, May 12, according to his bandmates. The 32-year-old 'Katastro' vocalist was one of three people killed after a car crashed with construction machinery on California's north Pacific Highway.

Andy Chaves was the lead singer of the rock band Katastro. At around 12.45 a.m., Newport Beach Police were summoned to the site, where they verified three fatalities. Chaves, Crystal McCallum, 34, and Wayne Walter Swanson Jr, 40, were immediately declared dead. Three road workers who were standing nearby at the time of the crash were also taken to the hospital with cuts and bruises. A statement from the Newport Beach Police read: “A car carrying three people that was traveling east on the PCH hit a curb in the median and then slammed into roadwork construction equipment." Chaves' devastated bandmates confirmed his passing in an Instagram note. They wrote: "We are completely devastated to have to announce the loss of our brother and singer Andy Chaves. Please respect the privacy of Andy's family and the members of the band as we all begin to process this. Thank you for the love and support."

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Responding to the note, Dirty Heads singer-guitarist Dustin Bushnell wrote: "Love you guys. If you need anything at all I’m here for you." Sublime with Rome also responded, saying "Our prayers go out to you."

The band also posted a second picture honoring their beloved lead singer, writing in the caption: "We just went with Andy’s family to visit a tribute that a fan started in the parking lot at the Marquee Theatre in Tempe. Please come add to this and show your love with any photos, set lists, or any other memorabilia. Thank you all for the overwhelming love and support for Andy’s family and all of us in the band. We love you all.- Stravs, Tanner and Ryan."

Several fans paid tribute to the singer on social media, as one wrote, "This is absolutely tragic! One of the very best. Heartbroken would be an absolute understament."

"I cannot believe Andy Chaves is fucking dead. Literally just watched him on a live and cannot accept that this is true," a heartbroken fan posted.

Another tweeted, "Major talent with a life cut tragically short. If you dont know Andy Chaves and Katastro, put some of their tunes on blast today. R.I.L." 

'Sucker', the band's most recent album, was released in 2021, with two release performances planned at the Marquee Theatre next month. They were also slated to tour with Iration and Atmosphere this summer.