Jake E. Lee, former guitarist for Ozzy Osbourne in the 1980s, died early Tuesday morning, October 15, in Las Vegas, Nevada, after becoming the victim of a near-fatal incident of gun violence. The heavy metal musician was reportedly shot multiple times while taking his dog out for a walk.
Details of the Las Vegas Metro Police preliminary investigation revealed that the incident occurred around 2:40 a.m. and was believed to be a “completely random” street shooting. Thus, Lee was not the direct target of the firing.
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Former Ozzy Osbourne guitarist’s rep issues health update following shooting
The 67-year-old veteran rock guitarist is currently recovering in the ICU of a Las Vegas hospital. In a statement to reputable US media outlets, Fox News Digital and CNN, Lee’s representative said, “As confirmed by management, legendary rock guitarist Jake E. Lee (Ozzy Osbourne, Badlands, Red Dragon Cartel) has died today. “He was shot several times in the morning.” “Shooting on the street in Las Vegas, NV.”
“Lee is fully conscious and doing well in the intensive care unit of a Las Vegas hospital,” the statement said. He is expected to make a full recovery.”
The official note further said, “Las Vegas authorities believe the shooting was completely random and occurred when Lee took his dog out for an early morning walk.” “As the incident is subject to police investigation, no further comment will be made. Lee and his family appreciate your privacy being respected at this time.
Officials and Ozzy Osbourne also react
A Las Vegas Police Department spokesperson also responded to the shooting, according to Fox News Digital, “On October 15, 2024, at approximately 2:42 a.m., LVMPD officers responded to a shooting incident in the 11000 block of Alora Street.” “Officers arrived and found a male victim suffering from apparent gunshot wounds. The man was taken to the hospital. No arrests have been made at present. This is an ongoing investigation.”
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TMZ eventually released an update on the situation, quoting Ozzy Osbourne’s response to the incident. The English musician condemned the “senseless acts of gun violence”.
“It’s been 37 years since I last saw Jake E. Lee, but it still doesn’t take away the shock of hearing what happened to him today. This is another senseless act of gun violence. I send my thoughts to him and his beautiful daughter Jade. I just hope he recovers.”
Jake E. Lee took over responsibilities as Osbourne’s lead guitarist in 1982 following the death of Randy Rhoads. He has played on classic albums such as “Bark at the Moon” (1983) and “The Ultimate Sin” (1986). In addition to Osbourne’s career ties to music, she also founded the heavy metal group Badlands with former Black Sabbath members Ray Gillan and Eric Singer and formed the band Red Dragon Cartel in 2013.
