Earlier today, we reported that Anthrax guitarist Scott Ian missed last night’s show in Kansas City, Mo., due to an unspecified illness. Now, the band has released a statement explaining that Ian is battling a severe viral infection that caused him to be hospitalized in Los Angeles. In addition, the band also has announced that drummer Charlie Benante has left the tour to be at the bedside of his terminally ill mother in New York.

Ian, who had to receive intravenous fluids and was ordered by doctors not to fly, will also miss tonight’s show in Indianapolis, Ind., but is expected to return to the band’s lineup for their Fort Wayne, Ind., show on Saturday (Jan. 28.) As they did last night, guitarists from current tour mates Testament and Death Angel will perform in his place. Starting tonight, Testament drummer Gene Hoglan will fill in for Benante. The U.S. trek is scheduled through a Feb. 8 show in New York City.

“We didn’t want to cancel any of the concerts, we didn’t want to let anyone down,” says Anthrax guitarist Rob Caggiano, “so we decided to figure out a way to keep the show on the road.  We’re so grateful to the guys in Testament and Death Angel for stepping up.”

We wish Scott Ian a speedy recovery and offer our best wishes to Charlie Benante.

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