Former Iron Maiden vocalist and solo artist Paul Di’Anno died at 66 years old in late October. Di’Anno‘s family has now issued a statement on his cause of death, saying it was a heart issue that was mercifully quick and painless.

The following statement was posted to Di’Anno‘s social media: “Dear fans and friends, we have received permission from Paul‘s family to bring you the news of Paul‘s cause of death, after the results of the autopsy have been received. His sisters Cheryl and Michelle confirmed the following: ‘Basically he had a tear in the sac around the heart and blood has filled inside it from the main aorta artery and that has caused the heart to stop.’ Paul’s death was instantaneous and hopefully painless. May he rest in peace.

“This weekend, an In Memoriam show was held at Underworld Camden, where many of Paul‘s fans, friends, colleagues and family members came. With a magnificent musical set, his musical colleagues said a worthy farewell to their friend.”

Di’Anno fronted Iron Maiden between 1978 and 1981, and sang on both Iron Maiden‘s 1980 self-titled and 1981 record Killers. Di’Anno also fronted legendary metal band Praying Mantis between 1989 and 1990, as well as Battlezone for a handful of years between 1985 and 1998.

Di’Anno has had a lengthy solo career under his own name since 1997, and most recently released his cover of Iron Maiden‘s “Wrathchild”. Di’Anno was also currently fronting Warhorse, who just released their new album Paul Di’Anno’s Warhorse this past July.

Iron Maiden previously issued a statement on Di’Anno‘s passing, writing: “We are all deeply saddened to learn about the passing of Paul Di’Anno earlier today. Paul‘s contribution to Iron Maiden was immense and helped set us on the path we have been travelling as a band for almost five decades. His pioneering presence as a frontman and vocalist, both on stage and on our first two albums, will be very fondly remembered not just by us, but by fans around the world.

“‘It’s just so sad he’s gone,’ comments Steve Harris. ‘I was in touch with him only recently as we texted each other about West Ham and their ups and downs. At least he was still gigging until recently, it was something that kept him going, to be out there whenever he could. He will be missed by us all. Rest in peace mate.’

“We were very grateful to have had the chance to catch up a couple of years ago and to spend time with him once more. On behalf of the band, Rod and Andy, and the whole Iron Maiden team, we extend our deepest sympathies to Paul‘s family and close friends. Rest In Peace Paul.”