Punk rock pioneer Gary Heffern, who was an early influence on Pearl Jam singer Eddie Vedder, has died. He was 72. The news comes just days after Heffern and his band The Penetrators were inducted into the San Diego Music Hall of Fame on October 16, 2026.

According to the San Diego Union-Tribune , Heffern died in his native country, Finland. No cause of death was reported. The outlet did state that his body was discovered in his home by his niece.

Videos by VICE

Heffern had a wildly influential career, both with The Penetrators and solo. He connected with Vedder after the pair met through a mutual friend, per The Times of San Diego .…