Brent Hinds blamed for deadly motorcycle crash in crash report
A recently released crash report from the Atlanta Police Department has identified Brent Hinds, the former guitarist of Mastodon, as being responsible for a fatal motorcycle accident. Hinds was involved in the incident on the evening of August 20, where he collided with a BMW SUV that was turning left. Initially, it was indicated in the police report that the BMW driver failed to yield. However, an updated report states that Hinds was at fault due to his speeding.
Following a thorough investigation, it was determined that Hinds was traveling between 63 and 68 mph at the time of the crash. The investigative narrative in the report detailed the process of conducting time distance calculations of the motorcycle and assessing the velocity changes of the BMW using video footage of the intersection. The evidence presented in the video clearly indicated that Hinds was traveling at an excessive speed, leading to the crash. Consequently, he was deemed responsible for the accident.
The report also mentioned conflicting reports regarding the traffic light status at the time of the collision. While the SUV driver claimed the light was green, a witness report contradicted this, stating that the light was red. Unfortunately, Hinds succumbed to his injuries sustained in the crash, at the age of 51.
Mastodon, the band to which Hinds belonged, expressed profound sadness and grief in a statement released on August 21. They mourned the loss of Hinds, emphasizing the impact of his creativity on their shared musical journey and the hearts of their audience. Hinds was an integral founding member of Mastodon, along with Troy Sanders, Brann Dailor, and Bill Kelliher. This lineup remained unchanged for 25 years until Hinds departed from the band in March 2025.
The tragic accident has left a void in the music industry and among fans of Mastodon. The loss of Brent Hinds serves as a poignant reminder of the fragility of life and the unforeseen circumstances that can abruptly alter the course of one’s existence. As the music world mourns the untimely passing of a talented musician, the memory of Brent Hinds, his contributions to Mastodon, and the legacy he leaves behind will endure through the music that he helped create.