Chicago police are citing a possible drug overdose as the suspected cause of death of former Weezer bass player Mikey Welsh, the Chicago Tribune is reporting. The musician was found dead in his room at the Raffaell Hotel on October 8 in the windy city. He was found unresponsive on the floor by hotel staff after he failed to check out at 1 pm, Chicago Police News & Affairs Officer Laura Kubiak said.

Welsh was pronounced dead at the scene at 2:50 pm, the Cook County medical examiner’s office is reporting. An autopsy is scheduled, but police feel narcotics were the cause of death. Officers are conducting a death investigation.

The bassist was in Chicago for the city’s RiotFest, and was expected to attend Weezer’s show. He performed with the band between 1998 and 2001, but eventually left after suffering from a nervous breakdown. The 40-year-old later went on to find success as a painter. The year after his departure from the band, he said “I really feel the need to reinvent myself and move on, and I couldn’t be happier painting. Music is still an important part of my life, but I really have no desire to actually play it.”

Weezer posted a message on its Weezerpedia page. The message said “Understanding that many here are grieving, Weezerpedia has created a digital eulogy page for (Mikey) Welsh where fans can post stories, pictures or thoughts.”

Written by: Karen Benardello