Alice in Chains bassist dies

This is a bummer. I watched a few episodes of Celebrity Rehab, and he seemed like a gentle soul, but someone that just couldn't beat his addiction. From this morning's RAMP Newsletter...

"Mike Starr, the original bassist of Alice in Chains, passed away Tuesday in a Salt Lake City house. He was only 44. Starr reportedly died of a drug overdose, having battled a heroin addiction that lasted many years and was publicly chronicled last year on the third season of VH1's Celebrity Rehab with Dr. Drew, as well as Sober House; unfortunately, Starr was arrested last month in Salt Lake City for possession of a controlled substance -- reports say he was caught with Xanax and painkillers. A simple statement appeared on Alice in Chains' website merely saying, "Members of Alice in Chains are mourning the loss of their friend and ask that the media respect their privacy -- and the privacy of the Starr family -- during this difficult time. Their thoughts and prayers are with the Starr family." Upon learning of the news, Dr. Drew Tweeted, "Devastating to hear of Mike Starr succumbing to his illness. So very sad. Our prayers are with his family."