William Brent Hinds Obituary, Death – William Brent Hinds, the former lead guitarist and co-founder of the acclaimed heavy metal band Mastodon, tragically died Wednesday night in a motorcycle accident in Georgia, authorities confirmed. The fatal incident occurred at the intersection of Memorial Drive and Boulevard in Atlanta when a BMW driver failed to yield while making a turn, colliding with Hinds’ Harley-Davidson. Emergency responders pronounced him dead at the scene, and his passing was later confirmed by the Fulton County Medical Examiner’s Office. Hinds was 51 years old.
Hinds was best known for his role in Mastodon, a band he co-founded in 2000 alongside bassist Troy Sanders, guitarist Bill Kelliher, and drummer Brann Dailor. The Atlanta-based group quickly rose to prominence in the heavy metal scene, releasing eight studio albums and earning widespread recognition, including a Grammy Award for their performance of “Sultan’s Curse” from their 2017 album Emperor of Sand. The band became known for its complex compositions, innovative sound, and powerful performances, cementing Hinds’ legacy as a pioneering figure in modern metal.
Earlier this year, Mastodon and Hinds parted ways under circumstances that have been a subject of public discussion. In March 2025, Billboard reported that the band announced a mutual decision to separate from Hinds. However, in early August, Hinds publicly stated that he had been kicked out of the band, adding a layer of complexity to his departure. Despite these internal conflicts, Mastodon paid tribute to Hinds following his untimely death, releasing a heartfelt statement on social media.
“We are in a state of unfathomable sadness and grief… last night Brent Hinds passed away as a result of a tragic accident,” the statement read. “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.” The band continued, extending condolences to Hinds’ family, friends, and fans while asking the public to respect the privacy of those affected during this difficult time.
Hinds’ passing represents a significant loss to both the music industry and his devoted fan base. Over the years, he played an integral role in shaping Mastodon’s sound and identity, contributing not only his technical skill and distinctive guitar work but also his songwriting and creative vision. His influence extended beyond the band, inspiring countless musicians and leaving a lasting mark on the heavy metal genre.
The Atlanta Police Department continues to investigate the circumstances of the crash, focusing on the events leading up to the collision and the actions of the BMW driver. The tragic accident has drawn widespread attention and an outpouring of grief from fans, fellow musicians, and members of the music community who admired Hinds’ talent and contribution to the industry.
As the heavy metal world mourns the loss of William Brent Hinds, reflections on his career and impact underscore the void left by his sudden death, while fans remember him as a creative force whose music resonated deeply and will continue to inspire future generations.
