Founding Fear Factory guitarist Dino Cazares has released an emotional statement mourning the loss of a fan who was tragically killed in a high-speed vehicle collision shortly after attending the band’s concert in Sydney, Australia.
On Friday, May 22, 28-year-old Seamus Duignan attended the heavy metal group’s performance to celebrate his birthday, according to News.com.au. Following the show, the young fan hired an Uber to travel home. Tragically, the blue Toyota Camry they were traveling in was struck by an oncoming Audi that had crossed into the wrong lane on Rocky Point Road in Sans Souci. The high-speed impact killed Seamus Duignan, the Uber driver, and the driver of the Audi instantly.
Upon learning the devastating details of the incident, Dino Cazares took to the band’s official social media channels to post a video message expressing his profound heartbreak over the loss.
“We were deeply saddened to hear about the tragic accident involving one of the fans who attended our Sydney show. Our thoughts and condolences go out to their family, friends, and everyone affected by this loss.”
“We’re grateful to everyone who comes out to support Fear Factory around the world, and we simply want to remind everyone to travel safely and look out for one another on the road home.”
“Much respect and sympathy from all of us in Fear Factory.”
According to the ongoing police investigation, the 42-year-old driver of the Audi, identified as Tamati Gilbert, had been approached by local law enforcement for a welfare check at his home in Gymea Bay approximately 10 minutes prior to the crash. Following the police interaction, the driver reportedly sped away from the residence. Moments later, he lost control of the vehicle, smashing through a concrete barrier before flipping the car and landing directly on top of the oncoming Toyota.
Detective Acting Superintendent Graham Hibbs described the immediate aftermath as a “horrific scene.” He noted that authorities are actively investigating whether significant speed and the potential influence of dr*gs or alcohol were contributing factors in the fatal collision.
Following the tragic news, the victim’s grieving family publicly expressed their absolute devastation and called for a rigorous investigation into the crash.
The victim’s brother, Sean Duignan, shared a brief, emotional tribute online, stating: “Absolutely devastating news rest easy little brother can’t believe your (sic) gone life isn’t fair. Love you forever sea mouse.”
Speaking directly to the Saturday Telegraph, the victim’s mother, Kim Duignan, demanded complete transparency from the ongoing investigation.
“There needs to be a complete inquest into what caused this crash. I don’t want any other parent to have to go through this.”
Remaining “Cybernetic Domination” Tour Dates:
- May 26 – Brisbane, AUS – The Tivoli
- May 27 – Townsville, AUS – The Warehouse
- May 29 – Hobart, AUS – Odeon
- May 31 – Auckland, NZ – The Studio
