(RxWiki News) Bob Welch, the guitarist who grooved with Fleetwood Mac for three years, died Thursday at age 65 of a self-inflicted gunshot wound, the Associated Press reported.
Welch played guitar and sang vocals with the band Fleetwood Mac from 1971 to 1974. His biggest hit during his solo career was "Sentimental Lady," released in 1977 on the album French Kiss.
"Suicide is never the answer. Call 1-800-273-8255 for help."
Two other hit singles on the album French Kiss - his most successful with over a million copies sold - were "Ebony Eyes" and "Hot Love, Cold World." His next big album, Three Hearts in 1979 included singles "Precious Love" and "Church."
Welch joined Fleetwood Mac shortly before guitarist Danny Kirwan left the band. Welch left before Fleetwood Mac produced some of their best known hits in the mid- and late 70's.
Nashville police reported that Welch's wife discovered him at home with a gunshot wound to his chest and a suicide note. The police spokesperson also said Welch had been having health problems before his death.
Anyone contemplating suicide should seek help immediately. The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline is 1-800-273-8255.
Older Americans are disproportionately more likely to die by suicide, according to the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH). In 2007, 14.3 of 100,000 people aged 65 and older died by suicide, compared to the national average that year of 11.3 suicides per 100,000 people in the general population.
Risk factors for suicide include depression, substance abuse problems or other mental heath disorders, previous suicide attempts, a family history of mental health problems or suicide, family violence and having firearms in the home. Guns are used in more than half of all suicide, reports NIMH.
