Robert Wayne Birch, bass player for Elton John, has been found dead at his home in Los Angeles. He was 56.

Birch was found dead on Wednesday and is thought to have died from a self-inflicted gunshot wound, although this has yet to be officially confirmed.

TMZ have quoted LA Count Assistant Coroner Ed Winter as saying that Birch's death is being "investigated as a possible suicide".

Birch has been playing with Elton John since 1992 and played on John's most recent musical output, including 2004's Peachtree Road and 1997's Made In England. He also worked with Brian Wilson, Sheryl Crow, Courtney Love, Rufus Wainwright and Stevie Wonder.

Birch is survived by his wife Michelle and son Jonathan.