Tim Lambesis, lead singer for the heavy metal, "christian" band As I Lay Dying, has been arrested over accusations he sought the help of an undercover detective to have his estranged wife killed, police said.

Lambesis was taken into custody on Tuesday in Oceanside, California, after he solicited help in the scheme from the undercover detective, said San Diego County Sheriff's Department spokeswoman Jan Caldwell.

As I Lay Dying singer Tim Lambesis performing at the 2010 Revolver Golden Gods Awards. Credit:Getty Images

Police had previously learned Lambesis was seeking someone who could commit the slaying, Caldwell said.

"The information came to us late last week. We acted quickly on it. I believe that we averted a great tragedy," she said.