"It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Pat DiNizio, lead singer and songwriter of the influential New Jersey rock band, The Smithereens – America's Band," the band wrote on its Facebook page. "Pat was looking forward to getting back on the road and seeing his many fans and friends. Please keep Pat in your thoughts and prayers."
In recent years, DiNizio had suffered nerve damage after a series of falls. Earlier in 2017, another fall caused neck and back injuries and the band was forced to cancel a series of concerts, including a performance at the inaugural 80s in the Sand festival in the Dominican Republic.