Sparklehorse’s Mark Linkous has committed suicide, it is being reported. According to Rolling Stone, the singer, songwriter, and multi-instrumentalist took his own life on Saturday, March 6, something confirmed by his publicist. He was in his forties, although his exact age is unknown.

A statement from his family reads, “It is with great sadness that we share the news that our dear friend and family member, Mark Linkous, took his own life today. We are thankful for his time with us and will hold him forever in our hearts. May his journey be peaceful, happy, and free. There’s a heaven and there’s a star for you.”

Linkous founded Sparklehorse in 1995. He released four records with the band, in addition to being a sought-after record producer. He was an avid supporter of songwriter Daniel Johnston, producing Johnston’s 2003 album, Fear Yourself, as well as a 2004 Johnston tribute album, The Late Great Daniel Johnston: Discovered Covered, which featured the likes of Beck, Bright Eyes, and Tom Waits. Linkous also collaborated with Danger Mouse in 2006 for Dark Night of the Soul. A new album, set for release via Anti- Records, was reportedly nearly finished.

Read a 2007 interview Linkous did for the AV Club here.