Iced Earth singer and bassist officially leave the band following Jon Schaffer’s involvement in Capitol Riots

Iced Earth members Stu Block and Luke Appleton, the band’s singer and bassist respectively, have officially quit the band, following guitarist Jon Schaffer’s involvement in, and subsequent arrest for, the US Capitol Riots of 6 January 2021.

Block and Appleton posted separate statements on social media, but both have noted that they are resigning with immediate effect. Appleton wrote: “In response to recent events & circumstances, I have notified Iced Earth’s management and Jon that I will be resigning as the Iced Earth bassist with immediate effect.”

He also extended gratitude to “everyone who has sent me their support and love during this difficult time.”

Block wrote in his statement: “Well, there are times and events when you have to take stock and re-evaluate your life, work, and trajectory for the future. That being said I have informed Jon and his current management that I must announce my resignation from Iced Earth with immediate effect.

“Before I made any personal decision I needed the last few weeks to process the situation as well as respect others in our camp processing the situation. I thank you all very much for respecting this. It’s the best decision in many ways for my personal/ professional growth going forward. Time to move on, heal and prosper.”

He also seemingly hinted at new music on the way from a project other than Iced Earth, writing: “Don’t fret! Stay tuned for some exciting things to come! Time to embark upon a new chapter. Be good to each other.”

Their departure follows vocalist Hansi Kürsch’s departure from Demons & Wizards, a side-project duo he had alongside Schaffer, effectively ending the project.

Schaffer is expected to be extradited to Washington DC from Indiana due to his criminal charges. He turned himself in to the authorities a week after he appeared on the FBI’s most-wanted list, and is reportedly facing six charges, including using bear spray on police officers. Bear spray makes use of capsaicinoids, the chemicals that give chilli peppers heat, and can be bought even in some states where traditional pepper sprays are illegal.

Jon Schaffer, Columbus, IN, has been arrested in connection to Jan 6 incident at the U.S. Capitol. Schaffer faces 6 charges including engaging in an act of physical violence in a Capitol building. Schaffer was allegedly among rioters who sprayed Capitol police with "bear spray."

— FBI Indianapolis (@FBIIndianapolis) January 18, 2021

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