When did Chi Cheng pass away? How did Chi Cheng crash?

On April 13, 2013, music maestro, Chi Cheng, the brilliant bassist and soulful backing vocalist of Deftones, passed away at just 42.

His journey ended after battling a semi-comatose state since a fateful car accident in 2008, culminating in a sudden cardiac arrest.

Chi wasn’t just a musician; he was a beacon of positivity, leaving an indelible mark on the hearts of fans worldwide.

His bass lines were like poetry, intricate and resonant, creating a sonic landscape that defined Deftones’ sound. Beyond the stage, Cheng was a beloved figure in the music realm.

His untimely death left a void that words struggle to fill. Chi Cheng lives on in the melodies he crafted, in the memories of vibrant performances, and in the enduring love of countless fans.

How did Chi Cheng crash?

On a fateful day in 2008, Chi Cheng faced a life-altering moment in Santa Clara, California. Riding shotgun with his sister, Mae, their car collided with another at breakneck speed.

Chi, not strapped in, was thrown out during the chaotic flips that followed. His sister, securely buckled, emerged with minor injuries.

Sadly, Chi slipped into a coma due to the severe crash, and his health bore the weight of that day until the end. The nitty-gritty of the other car’s involvement and the root cause of the collision remain somewhat shrouded.