Michael Becker/Getty Images for FoxDave Mirra was "more than just a sports figure" and his legacy will live on in Greenville, N.C., the city's mayor said Friday, a day after the BMX legend was found dead at age 41.
He had died from an apparent self-inflicted gunshot wound, police said. He was found sitting alone in his truck in Greenville. He is survived by his wife and two daughters. Mayor Allen Thomas and Greenville's police chief held a press conference about his death Friday.
"I do want to say that Dave Mirra is more than just a sports figure or someone that was recognized across this world for his gifts," the city leader told reporters, as seen in a video posted by NBC affiliate WITN. "He's a loving member of this community and that remains and I don't think there's a single person here that hasn't met him or hasn't experienced what a warm and humble guy he is."
He said that in Greenville, Mirra was known as "just a dad" and a "friend" who "would be the first one to give someone a ride somewhere, if they needed it" and was "always willing to help someone."
Thomas also said hours before Mirra's death, the two had a 20-minute conversation and discussed "some exciting things that he wanted to do" for the kids in Greenville.
"We love you Dave Mirra. We're going to miss you," Thomas said. "Your legacy's going to live on in this community."
An autopsy and toxicology screening are pending.
Mirra, a Syracuse, New York native, was also known as a past host of the MTV shows Real World/Road Rules Challenge. He was mourned online by stars such as Carey Hart, a former motorcycle racer-turned off-road truck racer and husband of singer Pink, as well as skateboarding legend Tony Hawk.
If you or someone you know needs help, you can call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-TALK (8255).
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