Hogan Ruspin, Bassist for Florida Punk Band Amateur Engines, Dies

Hogan Ruspin (born Smith), bassist for the Orlando, Fla.-based punk outfit Amateur Engines, has died following a car accident on Friday, Feb. 5.

Ruspin’s bandmates broke the news in a Facebook post: “We have been holding on to hope that we could share good news,” they wrote. “Unfortunately, the world doesn’t always cooperate. We are devastated to report that the medical staff caring for Hogan has confirmed the damage done is too severe for him to wake back up.”

The remaining three Amateur Engines members added they intend to continue on without Ruspin but haven’t determined in what capacity or project. They also promised a forthcoming tribute show for the late bassist, which will benefit Ruspin’s family:

There are no words to lessen the impact of this news. Surround yourself with all the loved ones you can while you still have them. A memorial service is being planned, but no details are known yet.

Hogan was always so proud of his friends. He would be ecstatic to know of all the support you have shown him and his family through this. Much of this band's growth and milestones has been due to Hogan's determination to see it succeed. Knowing that, we do intend to continue making music, though the exact details of the project have barely even been thought of yet. We are also planning a benefit show, to assist his family and honor his memory. Hogan loved the Orlando music scene, now it's time to reflect that love towards him. More details will be shared when we know.

In the meantime, hug your friends and call your family.

Thank you for the memories, Hogan.
- Joe, Nick, and Patrick

Ruspin had been in the hospital since the car accident earlier this month. The band shared the news two days later:

It is with a heavy heart we must bear bad news. As many of you may have heard, our dear friend and bass player Hogan was in a serious car accident this past Friday morning, and has been in the ICU since. He is badly beat up, but still alive. Out of respect for him and his family, we will release no more details on his status, location, or accident.

Amateur Engines released a string of demos in the past year on their Bandcamp page.

Musicians We've Already Lost in 2016