Blabbermouth is reporting that former Manowar drummer Scott Columbus has passed away at the age of 54. The information was first posted by former Manowar guitarist Ross “The Boss” Friedman on his own Facebook page, and later verified by Columbus’ girlfriend Nancy. According to the posts available at the time of this writing, Columbus died early in the evening of Monday, April 4, 2011. [Update: the band has confirmed the news, see full update below.] Cause of death is not known at this time.

Scott Columbus joined Manowar in 1983, and played with the band on many of their well-known and now classic albums such as Kings of Metal and Louder than Hell. He left the band in 2008, reportedly over disagreements with band members — though by all indications the disagreement seemed amiable and insiders say it was simply time for Columbus to move on.