Tragic news tonight from a promoter behind the current An Albatross / DMBQ tour. This past Friday the van carrying Japan's DMBQ was involved in a three-vehicle accident near the Delaware Memorial Bridge en route from Baltimore to Brooklyn. Following the accident all members of the band were hospitalized, as was tour manager Michelle Cable of Panache Magazine.

Reports from the promoter have confirmed that drummer Mana "China" Nishiura did not survive the accident. Nishiura, a native of Hiroshima, had formerly played in Shonen Knife and a number of other Japanese bands including Rashinban, Jesus Fever, Teem, Music Start Against Young Assault and Cel.

Cable is reportedly conscious following surgery for a head injury but will be hospitalized for the next few weeks. DMBQ's Shinji Masuko is still hospitalized and is expected to be released soon. Toru Matsui and Ryuichi Watanabe have already been released.

Our deepest condolences go out to Mana's family and friends.