The frontman of the heavy metal band Gwar, Dave Brockie, has been found dead at his home in the US at the age of 50.

Officers were called to a home in Richmond, Virginia, on Sunday evening to a report of a dead person, said Dionne Waugh, a spokesperson for local police.

When police arrived, Brockie was found dead inside the home.

Waugh said the medical examiner's officer would determine the cause of death but foul play is not suspected.

"Dave was one of the funniest, smartest, most creative and energetic persons I've known," former Gwar bassist Mike Bishop told Richmond's Style Weekly newspaper.

"He was brash sometimes, always crass, irreverent, he was hilarious in every way. But he was also deeply intelligent and interested in life, history, politics and art."

Former bandmate Chris Bopst said: "I wish it was a joke. Everyone is in shock."

Earlier today a picture of the musician was posted on the band's official website, along with the dates of his birth and death.

The group's manager, Jack Flanagan, released a statement confirming the news.

"It is with a saddened heart, that I confirm my dear friend Dave Brockie, artist, musician, and lead singer of Gwar passed away at approximately 6.50pm EST Sunday 23 March 2014.

"His body was found Sunday by his band mate at his home in Richmond, Virginia. Richmond authorities have confirmed his death and next of kin has been notified. A full autopsy will be performed," he said.

Flanagan added: "My main focus right now is to look after my band mates and his family. More information regarding his death shall be released as the details are confirmed."

Brockie had been part of the Grammy-nominated band since it was founded in 1984 and went by the stage name Oderus Urungus.

Gwar were known for the grotesque costumes, on-stage antics and extreme lyrics.

They had recently announced they would hold the fifth Gwar-B-Q concert on 16 August at Hadad's Water Park in Virginia.

The band released their last album in 2013 and had recently completed tours in Japan and Australia.

In 2011, lead guitarist 34-year-old Cory Smoot was found dead on the band's tour bus.

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