BMX Legend Scot Breithaupt Dies At 57; Police Find His Body Inside A Tent Near A Shopping Centre

The “Godfather of BMX” Scot Breithaupt was recently found dead inside a tent in Indio, California. The 57-year-old BMX Hall of Famer was found lifeless in a tent set up on a vacant lot. His body was discovered during the Fourth of July weekend.

Officials are still investigating the cause of death. Reportedly, the BMX legend did not appear to have been murdered, based on a TMZ report.

The Guardian revealed that Breithaupt’s death was a surprise to many and the details remain unclear. Police responded to reports that there was a body near a shopping centre in Indio. They discovered that it was the BMX star, who lived in nearby La Quinta. He had been dead for an unknown period of time. As of this writing, the cause of death remains unknown but authorities said there was no evidence of foul play.

Breithaupt is one of the greatest stars in the BMX world. He started riding when he was a teenager and then immediately began winning various championships. He was also one of the pioneers who helped set up bicycle motocross in the United States and as an international sport. Later on, Breithaupt started a business making bicycles by founding SE Racing. He created various innovative frame designs. Afterwards, he retired from active racing and sold his company to start LM Productions. He produced extreme-sport shows and BMX shows for Fox and ESPN.

According to Sgt Dan Marshall of the Indio Police Department, who confirmed his passing, the legend had a record of being imprisoned several times. He had also been homeless and battled addiction. In his death, he leaves behind his mother Carole, sister Lynda, brother Jeff and two sons Scot Jr and Brandon.

In an interview with the Desert Sun, Carole shared the struggle her son went through to fight his addiction. "He had solutions to everybody's problem, but his own," she said.

Many BMX stars and experts shared their sadness over Breithaupt’s death, saying he was a key element in the development of the sport and continues to inspire new BMX riders. "Scot was one of the key figures in making BMX become what it is today," said Craig Barrette, spokesperson for USA BMX.

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