What Happened to Andy J Chaves? Katastro band member dies at 32
3 min read
On Friday, May 13, Katastro’s members confirmed via social media that their bandmate, Andy J Chaves, had died. He was only 32 years old when he died.
While Andy’s family has yet to comment on his death, The Pier claims that he was killed in a car accident, citing a statement from the Newport Beach Police Department.
Andy’s death has come as a shock to his followers, who have sent him poignant tributes on social media.
Katastro was started by Andy J Chaves
Andy J Chaves was the lead singer for Katastro, a band he founded in Tempe, Arizona in 2007. Andrew Stravers, guitarist Tanner Riccio, and bassist Ryan Weddle make up the band.
Andy kept his personal life hidden from the public eye.
Since its inception, Katastro has released six full-length albums and two acoustic albums.
Andy’s Instagram is largely made up of photos and videos from his live performances. On the platform, he has over 14,000 followers.
The musician also had his own line of merchandise. Two of his T-shirts are available for $24.99 each on Just Merch.
Members of Kastastro share the sad news
Andy’s death was verified by Kastastro’s band mates via an Instagram post.
“We are completely devastated to have to announce the loss of our brother and singer Andy Chaves,” Ryan, Tanner, and Andrew Stravers wrote. Please respect Andy’s family’s and the band members’ privacy as we all begin to digest this. Thank you for your kindness and encouragement.”
Several well-known musicians have expressed their sympathies in the comments section of the post. “I love you guys,” Justin Bushnell said. “I’m here for you if you need anything.”
You @smashmouth we heard y'all are looking for a new singer 🤔🤔 pic.twitter.com/5ietlVSIDx
— Katastro (@Katastro) October 27, 2021
“Grateful I got to become friends with him, even if just for a short period,” Futuristic added to the previous comment.
“An automobile carrying three persons heading east on the PCH hit a curb in the median and then drove into roadwork construction equipment,” according to a statement from the Newport Beach Police Department.
“Orange County sheriff’s Sgt. Scott Steinle identified them as Crystal M. McCallum, 34, of Texas, Wayne Walter Swanson Jr., 40, of Newport Coast, and Andrew James Chaves, 32, of Arizona.”
Fans react to the news of the singer’s death
Meanwhile, Andy’s fans are struggling to accept his demise. Many of them have stated that the singer’s death has left a gap in the music business.
“I initially heard your music two weeks ago at Red Rocks, and the drummer even gave me a drum stick. I arrived home pumped and eager to meet you and the folks in OC. It’s heartbreaking. Now I’m a lifelong fan of yours. “Rest in peace,” one user tweeted.
“Absolutely devastating news,” said another.
Andy’s death has brought me great sadness. Thank you for the wonderful music and memories… Andy Chaves, R.I.P.”
Another user added, “Rest in peace Andy Chaves @Katastro, you’ll be missed and your music will live on forever.”
Rest In Peace 🕊 @andyjchaves #Katastro pic.twitter.com/rm3yJzblmy
— Las Vegas Roots (@LVROOTS) May 13, 2022
R.i.P. Andy J Chaves of @Katastro 💔
— SurfRootsTV&Radio (@SurfRootsRadio) May 13, 2022
I first heard your music two weeks ago at red rocks and even got a drum stick from the drummer. I came home hyped and ready to see you guys in OC with the fam. Beyond sad. Now I’m a forever fan of you guys. Rest in piece #andychaves #Katastro pic.twitter.com/d8b52B9jPv
— Hector in San Diego (@hectorh9) May 14, 2022
RIP Andy J Chaves ✨🐺🌙 I will never forget you at Dipiazzas ♥️✨🐺 #lbc #gentlepredator pic.twitter.com/BkVNnTDNvK
— latina//mod.io authenticmade (@authenticm4de) May 13, 2022
Ankita Khanrah
Ankita Khanrah is a second-year student of the Master of Communication and Journalism (Integrated) programme at the School of Mass Communication, KIIT Deemed University, Bhubaneswar.
