BMX Star Dave Mirra Dies In Apparent Suicide

BMX legend Dave Mirra - who once held the record for the most X Games medals - has died in an apparent suicide.

The 41-year-old's body was found in a truck in Pinewood Road, Greenville, North Carolina, with what is thought to be a self-inflicted gunshot wound on Thursday night, police said.

They said he had been visiting friends in the area.

City of Greenville Mayor, Allen Thomas, paid tribute 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."

Mirra was an accomplished BMX rider and one of the most decorated athletes in X Games history.

He won a medal every year between 1995 and 2008 and won 14 gold medals in total.

His one-time record of 24 career medals was broken in 2013 by Bob Burnquist.

He also hosted MTV's Real World/Road Rules Challenge and two video games carried his name.

Mirra is survived by his wife and two children.

:: Anyone feeling emotionally distressed or suicidal can call Samaritans for help on 116 123 or email jo@samaritans.org

In the US call the Samaritans branch in your area or 1 (800) 273-TALK.