The Who's Bass Player Dies

L A S   V E G A S, June 28 -- The Who's bass player, John Entwistle, died in his hotel room Thursday, just as the band was about to kick off a North American tour. He was 57.

The Las Vegas Metro Police say that they responded to a call from the Hard Rock at about noon. While an official cause of death will not be announced until after an autopsy today, the police say it appears that the bassist died of natural causes. .

"There is no evidence whatsoever of any drug involvement," said Lieut. Tom Monahan of Las Vegas Metropolitan Police. "There is no evidence whatsoever of any violence or trauma, there is no evidence of anything except for a natural death."

Officials refused to reveal any details whether anyone was with Entwistle at the time of his death, or who found his body.

Fans Mourn Outside Hotel

As news of Entwistle's death emerged, stunned fans from across the country began gathering on the Hard Rock casino floor, outside the entrance to the resort's concert venue, The Joint. Soon, many appeared with flowers, which they left next to larger arrangements bought by the casino, and beneath a poster advertising today's show.

Michael Rudman traveled from San Francisco to see the show. "This was the opening of the tour, the smallest venue [they were going to play]. I had a killer seat. I was jazzed," he said.

"I just checked into the hotel an hour ago a friend of mine called me from San Francisco saying, 'I got bad news."

Rick Cermera, who came from New York, was also caught off guard.

"I didn't believe it. He looked in great health," he said. "I mean, seeing him play for over 25 years with Keith Moon and Pete Townshend, smashing their guitars and the drums. I mean, you would never think a tragedy like this would happen."

The Quiet Man Everyone Knew

While guitarist Pete Townshend wrote most of the songs, and Roger Daltrey served as lead singer for most of the band's best known songs — such as "My Generation," "Baba O'Riley," and "Pinball Wizard" — Entwistle wrote and sang a smattering of songs and provided a steady bass and backing vocals.