Ozzy Osbourne has responded to the ‘senseless’ shooting of his former guitarist Jake E Lee, describing it as “another senseless act of gun violence.” Lee, who is 67 years old, was shot multiple times while walking his dog in Las Vegas on October 15. Authorities believe it was a random attack, and Lee is expected to make a full recovery.
Osbourne, in a statement obtained by The Independent, expressed his shock at the incident, despite not having seen Lee for 37 years. He extended his thoughts to Lee and his daughter, Jade, saying, “I just hope he’ll be ok.” Lee, known for his work with bands like Ratt, Badlands, and Red Dragon Cartel, was Osbourne’s guitarist from 1982 to 1987.
Lee’s representatives confirmed the shooting, stating that he is currently conscious and recovering in an intensive care unit at a Las Vegas hospital. The incident occurred in the early morning while Lee was walking his dog, and authorities believe it was a random attack. Lee’s family has requested privacy as the investigation unfolds.
Born in 1957 in Norfolk, Virginia, Lee’s musical journey led him to bands like Ratt and later to join Ronnie James Dio’s band before working with Osbourne. Despite his departure from Osbourne’s band in 1987, Lee continued to make music, forming bands like Badlands and Red Dragon Cartel.
After a hiatus, Red Dragon Cartel was formed in 2013, releasing albums like their self-titled debut and “Patina” in 2018. The incident in Las Vegas has shocked the music community, with Osbourne and fans sending well wishes for Lee’s recovery. The guitarist’s resilience and contribution to the music industry are being remembered and celebrated during this challenging time.