Slayer guitarist Jeff Hanneman dies at 49

Washington: Thrash-metal legend and founding member of the band `Slayer`, Jeff Hanneman, has died of liver failure. He was 49.

According to reps for the American guitarist, Hanneman was in a hospital near his California home when his liver failed at around 11 a.m, TMZ.com reported. The punk-influenced thrasher was a major part of Slayer`s songwriting ... contributing lyrics and music on each of their albums - including songs ` Raining Blood,` `War Ensemble` and `Seasons in the Abyss.` Hanneman, who formed the band along with his fellow Slayer guitarist Kerry King , is survived by wife Kathy, sister Kathy and his brothers Michael and Larry. ANI