American BMX athlete Dave Mirra (real name David Michael Mirra) has died, according to a TMZ report. He was 41 years old.
Dave, who once held the record for the most “X Games” medals, was found dead in his truck in Greenville, North Carolina after an apparent suicide. This was confirmed by the Greenville police.
The Guardian quoted Greenville mayor Allen Thomas as saying, “We mourn the loss today of a great friend and wonderful human being who touched the lives of so many around the world with his gift. He called Greenville, North Carolina home and was as humble a guy talking with kids on a street corner about bikes as he was in his element on the world stage. A young life with so much to offer was taken too soon.”
Dave was one of the most celebrated names in “X Games”, having medaled in every “X Games” from when they started in 1995 up to 2009. His “X Games” medal record of 24 medals was only broken by Brazilian-American professional skateboarder Bob Burnquist in 2013.
He CV was not limited to extreme games alone as he was also a Subaru Rally Team USA driver, a MTV “Real World/Road Rules Challenge” host, and a business owner. On top of that, he has previously competed in ironman and triathlons.
Condolences from all around the world are flooding in as we speak. “X Games” broadcaster ESPN Games released a statement paying tribute to the late icon: “Dave Mirra, your courage, determination and natural skill in everything you pursued pushed the world of action sports to become a better place. From all of us at X Games and ESPN, we salute your contributions. Our sincere condolences go out to Dave’s wife, Lauren, his daughters Mackenzie and Madison, the BMX community and friends of Dave Mirra.”
Meanwhile, former professional skateboarder Tony Hawk posted the following on his Twitter upon hearing the news:
Goodbye Dave Mirra, a true pioneer, icon and legend. Thank you for the memories… we are heartbroken. pic.twitter.com/RHpTe7Qzwi
— Tony Hawk (@tonyhawk) February 5, 2016
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Still reeling with shock, fellow BMX legend T.J. Lavin reportedly told TMZ, “I just wish he would have called me. I would have jumped on a plane in a second. There’s always another way. If anyone needs help, just please get it. I feel sick about this.”
Dave was believed to have been visiting friends in the area a short time before the incident. In fact, less than 24 hours ago, he posted up a photo of himself and his wife on his Instagram captioned, “My Rock! Thank god.”
He leaves behind his wife Lauren and their 2 daughters.
Our thoughts and prayers go out to his family, friends, loved ones, and fans during this difficult time. Rest in peace, Dave Mirra.
Sources: ninemsn, TMZ, The Guardian / Featured image from Getty Images.
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