Dave Mirra, BMX icon, found dead in North Carolina

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Friday, February 5, 2016
BMX rider Dave Mirra pauses during practice for the Panasonic Open event Thursday, June 9, 2005, in Louisville, Ky.
BMX rider Dave Mirra pauses during practice for the Panasonic Open event Thursday, June 9, 2005, in Louisville, Ky.
kabc-AP Photo/Ed Reinke

GREENVILLE, N.C. -- North Carolina resident and BMX icon Dave Mirra is dead at 41.

Greenville police said they responded to a call for an apparent suicide around 4 p.m. on Thursday. Upon arrival to the home on Pinewood Road, officers found Mirra with an apparent self-inflicted gunshot wound.

According to police, Mirra was visiting friends in the area before the incident.

He is considered a trailblazer in the BMX world. He is credited with bringing the sport to the city of Greenville, now home to many professional BMX riders.

Mirra is survived by his wife and two children.

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.

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