BMX legend & MTV presenter Dave Mirra dies in apparent suicide aged 41
BMX icon Dave Mirra, who once held the record for the most X-Games medals ever held, has died in an apparent suicide.
He was also known as a skilled Subaru rally driver and featured in his self-titled Dave Mirra Freestyle BMX video game series.
An official statement from the local police department revealed that the extreme sports star had been visiting friends in North Carolina at the time of his visit.
The statement added: “Considered an icon in the pro-BMX world, Mirra was instrumental in bringing the sport to the City of Greenville, which now is home to more than 20 professional BMX riders.
“The record-holding athlete is survived by his wife and two children.”
Fellow BMX legend T.J. Alvin expressed his grief over the tragic star’s death, saying: "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."
Meanwhile City of Greenville Mayor Allen Thomas said he was “taken too soon”.
He said: "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."