Lynyrd Skynyrd Bassist Ean Evans Dies From Cancer

Jacksonville, FL (CNS) - Lynyrd Skynyrd's bassist, Ean Evans, has died after losing a battle with cancer on Wednesday. He was 48.

The message on the band's website reads: "It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of longtime Lynyrd Skynyrd bassist Ean Evans. Ean put up a valiant battle with an aggressive form of cancer and he will be sorely missed by family, friends and fans."

Evans joined the legendary rock band in August 2001 in Las Vegas after the death of their bassist Leon Wilkenson. He played on their 2003 album "Vicious Cycle" and toured with the band until his cancer diagnosis late last year.

The band is currently on tour in Europe.

It is the second death in the band this year. Keyboardist Billy Powell died in January after complaining of shortness of breath. Heart attack was suspected, but was not proven since an autopsy was not performed.