Bob Bryar, who served as drummer for the rock band My Chemical Romance from 2004-2014, during their rise to mainstream success, was found dead in his home in Tennessee on November 29, 2024. He was 44 years old.

Law enforcement officials discovered Bryar’s body in an advanced state of decomposition at his residence. He was last seen alive on November 4. Authorities have indicated no signs of foul play, noting that his weapons and music equipment remained undisturbed in the home.

Animal Control officers removed two dogs from the property following the discovery. The medical examiner is currently investigating the cause and manner of death.

Bryar joined My Chemical Romance in 2004 after meeting the band while they were touring with The Used. He replaced original drummer Matt Pelissier shortly after the release of their album “Three Cheers for Sweet Revenge.”

During his tenure with the band, Bryar played drums on their 2006 album “The Black Parade,” which became their most commercially successful release. He also contributed to songwriting for their 2010 album “Danger Days: The True Lives of the Fabulous Killjoys,” though he departed from the group before its release.

Following his exit from My Chemical Romance, Bryar worked with other musical acts before announcing his retirement from the music industry. He subsequently transitioned into a career in real estate.

In the years after leaving the band, Bryar became actively involved in animal welfare causes, particularly dog rescue efforts. He auctioned off his drum kit and uniform from The Black Parade tour to raise funds for animal shelters near his home in Tennessee.

My Chemical Romance has announced plans for a 10-city tour in July 2025, which will feature performances of “The Black Parade” in its entirety. Bryar, who holds the distinction of being the longest-serving drummer in the band’s history, was not scheduled to participate in the reunion shows.

The band released a statement following news of Bryar’s death, requesting “patience and understanding as they process the news.”

TMZ reported that the musician revealed he had experienced suicidal thoughts following his departure from My Chemical Romance. However, police have not confirmed that the drummer’s death was a result of suicide.