DJ Ajax Dies, Struck and Killed by Truck on 42nd Birthday: Fans Mourn Death of Renowned Australian Electro Dance Pioneer [VIDEO]

Renowned Australian disc jockey, DJ Ajax, died in a horrifically tragic road accident in Melbourne on Thursday, Feb. 28. It was the same day as Ajax's (Adrian Thomas') 42nd birthday. According to reports, Ajax was struck by a truck while out celebrating and was killed on impact. Fans recently took to Twitter to express their hurt, sorrow, and shock over the death of one of Australia's most influential pioneers in the electronic/techno music scene.

As News.com.au reports, Ajax (a popular DJ and a member of the well-known electro band Bang Gang) was celebrating his 42nd birthday with friends and family in the hours leading up to the accident. A police spokesperson claims, "It's believed the man ran in front of the north bound truck on College Crescent shortly before 1am. He died at the scene."

An ambulance was not called to the scene, because Ajax died on impact.

Several fans and colleagues have flooded Twitter and Facebook with messages of condolence:

"He was an icon for our industry and was always really positive. His energy was infectious," said fellow Melbourne DJ Grant Smillie. "He had the ability to make the most underground record cool. "It was his birthday yesterday. I only saw him two weeks ago in Melbourne at an event with Sneaky Sound System."

@davenada: "My heart just sank. RIP DJ Ajax. One of the best DJs I've ever known & an amazing human being. Love & deepest condolences to the Aussie fam."

@wearejustkiddin: "So sad to hear that DJ AJAX, Aussie house legend and label manager of Sweat it Out, has passed away. RIP buddy :(."

A statement issued by his label, Sweat it Out, remembered DJ Ajax as "instrumental in shaping the landscape of Australian dance music. He was a hugely talented individual and was highly respected by the local and international dance music community as a pioneer and innovator. Adrian touched so many people and it is impossible to sum up his legacy in words."

@gimmiegimmieani: "Very sad to hear about Ajax. I have very fond memories of looking after him at Empire. Incredible guy and an absolutely sensational. RIP DJ Ajax."

@Mightyfools: "RIP DJ Ajax, a true legend. Very glad our paths have crossed!"

@skizm_one: "RIP AJAX. I don't think there would be many in the Aussie dance community who haven't danced to one of your DJ sets at some point. Very sad."

@HOWARDOTHEGREAT: "In the name of the DJ the TRACK and the SOUNDSYSTEM AMEN!! RIP #Ajax."

DJ Ajax is remembered as a key figure in introducing electronic dance to the mainstream music scene in Australia: