Dave Mirra's family have released a statement following the triathlete and BMX champion's tragic death. His close friend and agent Steve Astephen revealed they were "shocked and saddened" after the 41-year-old has died of apparent suicide.
© Photo: Getty ImagesDave Mirra tragically passed away from apparent suicide on Thursday
"Dave's wife and family are shocked and saddened by the loss of such a remarkable person whom they loved so deeply," he told local newspaper Syracuse. "Thank you for your kind thoughts and prayers and for respecting their privacy through this difficult time."
Tributes for Dave, who was married to wife Lauren Blackwell Mirra with whom he had two daughters, have been pouring in from friends and fans.
Eric Hinman, who is often credited for inspiring Dave to take up triathlons, also opened up about the tragic loss. "It's just so sad and unexpected," he said. "He was an inspiring person, and super humble. He lived for his wife and kids. I have no idea how this could happen."
© Photo: Getty ImagesThe sportsman competed in the X Games, rally car racing and triathlons
Meanwhile retired racer Carey Hart, the husband of singer Pink, took to Twitter to mourn. "I'm in complete shock," he tweeted after the news first broke. "Angry, heartbroken and just sad at the passing of my friend Dave. Heartbroken 4 his daughters and wife. #DaveMirra."
Greenville police confirmed on Thursday night that Dave's body had been found earlier in the day. Authorities responded to reports of an apparent suicide and found Dave's body in a truck.
"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," said Greenville's mayor, Allen Thomas. "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.
