Country star Toby Keith is in mourning following the sudden death of his longtime bass player.

Carl 'Chuck' Goff, Jr., who worked with Keith for 25 years, was killed in a car crash in Oklahoma on Wednesday (27Feb13) at the age of 54.

Police are investigating the accident, and the singer has paid tribute to his pal.

In a statement, he writes, "We are deeply saddened by the sudden death of our band member, Chuck Goff. He was a close friend for over 25 years, the band leader and bass player. Our hearts and prayers go out to his family."