Lynyrd Skynyrd bassist Ean Evans dies

LOS ANGELES, May 7 (UPI) -- The U.S. rock band Lynyrd Skynyrd says its longtime bassist Ean Evans has died.

The Georgia native and Mississippi resident joined the group in 2001. He previously performed with the bands Cupid's Arrow and Outlaws.

"It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of longtime Lynyrd Skynyrd bassist Ean Evans," the group said on its Web site Wednesday. "Ean put up a valiant battle with an aggressive form of cancer and he will be sorely missed by family, friends and fans."

Evans is survived by his wife Eva and two daughters, Sydney and Andrea.