In October, an allegedly drunk driver struck the vehicle Sletager was driving, putting Sletager in a coma for a number of weeks. "He fought incredibly hard to live," says his friend and bandmate Matt Doctor. "But after many complications, his body began to shut down and the decision was made to let him go. He was surrounded by many friends and family at his passing."

Elphaba were a great band, and Sletager had been a proud supporter of the local all-ages music scene for many years. It was partly because of Elphaba that Rome Plow started up in the first place, going on to release great albums by bands such as the Assailant, Helms Alee, Blues, and more.

Rome Plow stopped putting out records some time ago, but cofounder Adam Paysse is bringing the label back for one more—he's going to celebrate Sletager's life by releasing Elphaba's last record, which the band never got a chance to release themselves, on limited-edition vinyl. "Jared was particularly proud of the record and sad it was never released," says Doctor.

Friends are also organizing some benefit shows to help his family cover the medical bills and the cost of the funeral. The first one is December 5 at the Black Lodge with Navigator vs. Navigator, Stres, and Happy Birthday Secret Weapon.

RIP, Jared. recommended

Recommended All-Ages Shows

Fri Nov 27: The Lonely Forest, Telekinesis, the Globes at Showbox at the Market, 8 pm, $10 adv/$12 DOS.

Sun Nov 29: Morrissey at the Paramount, 7:30 pm, $52–$72.

Mon Nov 30: Cold Cave, Former Ghosts at the Vera Project, 7:30 pm, $9/$8 with club card.

Mon Nov 30: Less Than Jake at Showbox at the Market, 6:30 pm, $20 adv/$23 DOS.