Former lead guitarist and co-founder of the heavy metal band Mastodon, Brent Hinds, died in a tragic motorcycle accident in Atlanta. He was 51 years old.
According to a report in Atlanta News First, the accident took place on the night of August 20, 2025, when William Brent Hinds was driving a Harley-Davidson. He was reportedly struck by a BMW SUV at the intersection of Memorial Drive and Boulevard at 11:35 pm, according to the police.
The music world is mourning the death of the guitarist with an outpouring of tributes from his fans and fellow musicians, who have expressed deep shock and sadness.
Hinds' music group posted a tribute on their Instagram page mourning the sudden demise of the musician. They wrote:
“We are heartbroken, shocked, and still trying to process the loss of this creative force with whom we’ve shared so many triumphs, milestones, and the creation of music that has touched the hearts of so many.”
They concluded:
“Our hearts are with Brent’s family, friends, and fans. At this time, we please ask that you respect everyone’s privacy during this difficult time.”
Tributes pour in as Brent Hinds dies
The Grammy-winning heavy metal band Mastodon announced in March that they had mutually decided to part ways with Hinds. However, as per Billboard, he contradicted their statement this month by stating that the decision was not mutual, but he was kicked out.
Fans have offered heartfelt tributes after the influential guitarist died in a tragic accident.
“As someone who knew Brent personally and has been a lover of Mastodon since they started here in Atlanta this is a hard, tragic day - I'm so thankful for the amazing music he left behind and may he rest in power, fly high Brent.....” A person commented on X.
“This is the worst news I've heard all year by far. He was such a talented guy. My heart goes out to his family and friends.” A user wrote on X.

“God damn man was not ever expecting this he was an amazing man his voice his guitar skills this man was just incredible this really really breaks my heart #RipBrentHinds #Mastodon #BrentHinds” Another user added.
“One maestro to another. So important to the advancement of the craft of modern heavy metal. Just gutted.” Someone else said.
“Got the honor of seeing them twice and I've always love their covers. May he rest in power and shred forever!” A user noted.
“Terribly sad, heartbreaking news. His way of playing the guitar made him unique. I'm so sorry for him and for his former bandmates from Mastodon, who have lost so many loved ones in recent times. Rest in peace” A person added.
Brent Hinds was born in 1974. He started playing in the mid-1990s along with Mastodon bassist Troy Sanders. By the early 2000s, he met drummer Brann Dailor and guitarist Bill Kelliher, after which they formed Mastodon in 2000.
By 2025, the band had released eight albums. They also earned a Grammy for their performance of “Sultan’s Curse” from their 2017 album “Emperor of Sand.”