Florida metallers Savatage have issued the following statement about asking fans to take a moment to remember their former guitarist Criss Olivia, who was killed in a car accident 16 years ago today:
"Sava fans,
"As most of you know, on October 17, 1993, the members of Savatage lost a brother, many people lost a friend, and the world lost a truly gifted musician. Please spare a thought for Criss Oliva and those who loved him today... may he rest in peace here, and rock hard with the angels up there!"
Criss Oliva was the lead guitarist, co-writer, and co-founder of the band Savatage. On October 17, 1993, the world lost one of its all-time greatest musical geniuses and the greatest guitar player ever when Criss was killed by a drunk driver. Although Criss's life was tragically cut short, and his talent was grossly underappreciated, his music will stand the test of time, and Savatage will ultimately be remembered as his band. Criss, like all true musical geniuses, such as Mozart, will live forever through his music...