Cannibal Corpse guitarist Erik Rutan leaves tour after Hurricane causes damage to his home

Cannibal Corpse guitarist Erik Rutan leaves the band's European tour due to severe hurricane damage to his Tampa home.

Cannibal Corpse guitarist Erik Rutan has left the band’s ongoing European tour due to severe damage to his home caused by Hurricane Helene. The hurricane has devastated the southeastern United States, particularly the Tampa region of Florida, which has seen the highest death toll in the state. According to The Washington Post, Pinellas County has been the most affected, with 64 people reported dead, and millions of residents left without power.

Cannibal Corpse, based out of Tampa since 1990, announced Rutan’s departure via their social media. "Due to catastrophic damage to his home from Hurricane Helene, Erik Rutan has left the tour to be present with his family at this time," the band stated, expressing their sympathies: "Our hearts go out to Erik and his wife as they deal with this situation."

 

 

 

 

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Despite Rutan’s absence, Cannibal Corpse has continued their European tour, playing recent shows as a four-piece. Fans attending the band's Birmingham, UK performance confirmed the band’s altered lineup in the comments of their Instagram post. Cannibal Corpse is scheduled to perform at multiple venues across Europe, with no indication of canceled dates.

The death metal band began their European tour on September 20 in Oberhausen, Germany, and will continue touring alongside Municipal Waste, Immolation, and Schizophrenia. The tour will conclude in Frankfurt, Germany, on October 20.

As recovery efforts continue in Florida, Rutan’s fans and bandmates are hoping for the safety and well-being of him and his family.