Dave Wolverton (who wrote fantasy as Dave Farland) died after a fall. He was just 62 years old. He was best known for the Runelords series --- and he also wrote "The Courtship of Princess Leia." He also published some books as Dave Wolverton. In addition, he was well-known as a writing instructor.
This was announced as
part of a news scroll in File 770, and his son
wrote about it on his Facebook page.
There is also
a tribute post on File 770.