Current Ministry bassist and longtime contributor to the industrial-metal world Paul Raven was found dead yesterday (Oct. 21) in a private home in France.

Early reports indicate Raven, 46, succumbed to a heart attack. He was in France collaborating with Treponem Pal for an upcoming album. Raven, who most recently appeared on Ministry's The Last Sucker (13th Planet Megaforce), established himself as a hard-hitting low end in 1982, taking over bass duties for Killing Joke until it dissolved for the first time in 1990, after which he played with Prong for a pair of albums.

"I am in total shock," Ministry front man Al Jourgensen said in a statement. "The world of music is a sadder, emptier place. Not only was Raven an extraordinary talent, but one of my closest dearest friends. Our condolences and prayers go to his immediate family. He will be truly missed by artists, musicians and his fans the world over."