Irish music was rocked today with news of the death of Tony Rice, drummer with the popular Portumna-based rock band, Big Generator.

His tragic death occurred after a single vehicle road collision, which happened in the early hours of Thursday morning in Galway. His loss brought the total number of deaths on Irish roads to 12 since Sunday.

A statement from the band, who played a special Galway Races gig earlier in the week, said that it was officially the saddest day in Big G history.

“We are devastated to have to announce that we lost our musical brother and friend Tony Rice today in a tragic car accident,” the statement said. "Tony passed away in intensive care at UCHG surrounded by all of the band, family and friends.

“Tony was pure raw talent and truly lived for his drums, we are upset beyond words and all our thoughts are with his family at this time...” And it concluded: "Tony our hearts are broken 'we miss ya brother’ RIP.”

The drummer’s car collided with a concrete barrier at 2.45am on Thursday morning at Coolagh, Gurtymadden, which is on the N65 Loughrea to Killimor road, three miles outside Killimor.

Tony was taken to University College Hospital Galway, where he died during Thursday afternoon.

In the immediate aftermath, the road where the accident occurred was closed for examination by Garda Forensic Collision Investigators. Gardai in Ballinasloe, who are investigating the accident, have appealed for witnesses. They have said that they want to speak to anyone who was on the stretch of road between the hours of 2.30am and 2.45am.

Anyone with information should contact Ballinasloe Garda Station on 0909631890, The Garda Confidential Telephone Line 1800 666 111 or any Garda Station.

Tony was the newest recruit to Big Generator, joining in 2014. He was based in Woodford Co. Galway. “He is one of the most naturally talented drummers we've ever met,” the band say on their website. Tony was strongly influenced by drummers such as Travis Barker, Mike Portnoy, Daniel Adair and Tommy Lee.

The other members of the band are Liam (rhythm guitar and vocals), Paul (bass and vocals) and Ed (lead guitar and vocals). Big Generator have been playing festivals throughout the summer, and were due to play the Le Chéile Festival in Oldcastle, Co. Meath on Sunday.