It breaks our hearts to report that, according to the Grensville, N.C. police department, BMX legend Dave Mirra has been found dead in a truck with an apparently self-inflicted gunshot would.

“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,” Greensville mayor Allen Thomas said in a statement

Dave once held the record for X Games medals.  He was a dominant force in the X Games medaling every single year from 1995- 2008 including 24 medals and 14 golds.

If you aren’t sure exactly how badass Dave Mirra was, then please watch the video below.  I grew up watching this guy and idolizing him.  The things he did on a bike seemed impossible to me then and still do today.  This guy embodied BMX.  I hope that Dave is in a better place now.

GREENSVILLE, N.C. MEDIA STATEMENT:

MEDIA RELEASE
Greenville, NC Police Department
February 4, 2016

GREENVILLE POLICE INVESTIGATING APPARENT SUICIDE

At approximately 4pm today, Greenville Police responded to the 200 block of Pinewood Road for an apparent suicide.

Upon arrival, officers discovered Dave Mirra, 41, of Greenville, sitting in a truck with an apparent self-inflicted gunshot wound. He had been visiting friends in the area a short time before the incident.

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.

“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,” said City of Greenville Mayor, Allen Thomas.

The Greenville Police Department will be handling the death investigation.
The family of Dave Mirra would appreciate privacy during this very difficult time.

If you or a loved one are struggling with suicidal thoughts, you are encouraged to seek help through the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline by calling 1-800-273-TALK.

Chief Holtzman and Mayor Thomas will address the media tomorrow, Friday, February 5, at 9:00 AM at GPD Headquarters.