THE former lead guitarist for the popular heavy metal band Mastodon has tragically died in an overnight bike crash.

William Brent Hinds was riding his Harley Davidson when a BMW SUV crashed into him near Boulevard, Atlanta.

The musician, who co-founded the band in 2000, was rushed to the hospital after being found unresponsive.

The Fulton County medical examiner’s office confirmed his death, Atlanta News First reports.

Atlanta Police Department said: "Officers located an unresponsive male who was involved in the collision.

"The male appeared to be operating a Harley Davidson during the time of collision.

"Preliminary investigation indicates the male was traveling West on Boulevard.

"The female operating the BMW SUV failed to yield while turning left and collided into the male victim

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