http://www.nme.co.uk/news/103736.htm
STEREOLAB MEMBER KILLED IN ROAD ACCIDENT

STEREOLAB guitarist MARY HANSEN has died.
Hansen was a core member of Stereolab, playing guitars and providing vocals for the last decade. The 36-year-old died in a cycling accident earlier this week (December 9).

A statement has been issued to NME.COM, that reads: "It is with great regret and deep sadness that we announce the death of Mary Hansen.

"Mary, vocalist and guitar player with Stereolab since 1992, died in a cycling accident in London on December 9, 2002. The suddenness of her death has shocked the band. Mary was a special person. Our thoughts are with her family and friends who will miss her greatly."

Along with Tim Gane and Laetitia Sadier, Stereolab are regarded as one of the most experimental and influential bands of the last ten years.

Their mid-90s albums 'Mars Audiac Quintet' and the eclectic 'Emperor Tomato Ketchup' saw them move towards the mainstream in terms of commercial success the UK.

Their most recent release was a compilation of their BBC Radio sessions, released last October.

OH NO! They're a great band! How sad