Huntress Singer Jill Janus Has Died, Aged 43

Huntress singer Jill Janus has died, aged 43, by suicide.

The frontwoman – who fought a long battle with mental illness – took her life outside of Portland, Oregon, on Tuesday, August 14.

A statement from Jill's family and bandmates reads as follows:

"It is with a heavy heart that we announce that Jill Janus — frontwoman for the California heavy metal band HUNTRESS — passed away on Tuesday, August 14. A longtime sufferer of mental illness, she took her own life outside of Portland, Oregon. Janus spoke publicly about these challenges in hopes of guiding others to address and overcome their mental illness.

"Janus was a truly special creative involved with numerous musical projects including her role as vocalist for female metal/hard rock cover bands THE STARBREAKERS and CHELSEA GIRLS. In addition, Janus was co-composer and creator of an upcoming rock opera with TRANS-SIBERIAN ORCHESTRA's Angus Clark and had a decade-long career as NYC DJ Penelope Tuesdae. Her musical career began in childhood.

"Beyond her accomplishments in the music world and her advocacy for mental health issues, she was a beautiful person passionate about her family, animal rescue and the world of natural medicine. She will be missed more than she could have ever known.

"If you or someone you know might be at risk of suicide, call 1-800-273-8255 to reach the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline. It provides free and confidential support 24 hours a day, seven days a week for people in suicidal crisis or distress."

Such devastating news. Our thoughts go out to Jill's family, friends and bandmates.