Mike Edwards, 62, was killed in a freak accident in the U.K. on Friday when his van was crushed by a 700 pound bale of hay that careened down a slope before flipping 15 feet over a hedge and landing on Edwards’ vehicle. The accident occurred in Devon at 12:30 p.m.
The founding member and cellist of Electric Light Orchestra was known for his unconventional cello playing. He plucked the strings with a grapefruit and wore bizarre costumes, which became trademarks of ELO.
He was active with the seven-piece band, led by Jeff Lynne, from 1972-1975 before quitting to become a Buddhist. He changed his name to Deva Pramada and made his living teaching the cello.
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