Dave Mirra Death: MTV ‘The Challenge’ Star TJ Lavin Speaks Out About Suicide After Former Host Dies

A member of the MTV family has died. Former “The Challenge” host and award-winning BMX professional Dave Mirra was found dead in Greenville, North Carolina, Thursday afternoon.

An initial Facebook statement from the city’s police department revealed Mirra, 41, was found “sitting in a truck with an apparent self-inflicted gunshot wound.”

"We have been able to determine Mirra's own gun was used and all preliminary findings of the medical examiner on-scene point to suicide," Greenville Mayor Allen Thomas and Greenville Police Chief Mark Holtzman announced in a press conference Friday. "It’s clear Dave struggled with internal demons – tragically, to the point where he chose to take his own life. It is our job now, not just as law enforcement, but as a community, to provide the support and resources necessary to help his family and friends get through this."

Just hours before reportedly taking his own life, Mirra posted two images to his Instagram page. One photo featured him and his wife of 10 years, Lauren Blackwell Mirra. Mirra referred to his partner as "his rock" in the caption. The second image was of Mirra performing a BMX stunt.

TJ Lavin, the current host of MTV’s “The Challenge,” responded to Mirra’s death on social media late Thursday. “Really love you guys,” Lavin, a fellow BMX rider, captioned of a shot of him posing with the deceased athlete and a few of their colleagues.

“Dave always had the best stories,” Lavin wrote on Instagram Friday. “He was one of the funniest people you could ever know and was super quick witted. I could give you a hundred examples of the things he’s influenced me on.”

Lavin, 39, said he was shocked to receive the call that Mirra had passed and pleaded with his fans to seek help if they’re suicidal. “Please know if you’re even thinking about doing something like this that its NOT the solution EVER. Please call someone and tell them you need help. It’s a permanent solution to a temporary problem. This goes out to anyone. Please get help there are people out there that will thank you…”

Mirra is survived by his wife and their two daughters, Madison and Mackenzie.