Marc Johnson dies at 49: What to know about death of Bay Area skateboarding legend

Marc Johnson, a professional skateboarder who is one of the most influential members of the sport, has died at the age of 49, Thrasher Magazine reports.

Johnson rose to fame in the late 1990s and 2000s, as he helped found one of the most influential brands in skateboarding. Johnson also battled alcohol issues throughout his life, though he said he got sober late in his life.

The skateboarding community mourns Johnson, whose influence in the industry spans almost three decades across a variety of areas in the sport.

Marc Johnson dies at 49

Louis Barletta, a professional skateboarder and close friend of Johnson, announced on Tuesday through Thrasher Magazine that Johnson passed away at 49 years old.

"Marc Johnson passed away today," Barletta wrote in his in-depth statement. "He was one of the most talented and creative people to ever step on or off a skateboard."

Barletta called Johnson "genius and tortured" who dealt with his own issues while simultaneously being a role model to young skateboarders. Johnson grew up in a trailer in North Carolina but made his way out to become an incredibly influential skateboarder.

Besides competing professionally, Johnson co-founded the skateboarding brand Enjoi in 2000 with Rodney Mullen. He also worked with Tilt Mode Army, a group that blends skateboarding and filmmaking into one medium.

"He gave opportunities to people who might never have had a chance otherwise. Without a shadow of a doubt, Marc Johnson was the single most influential person in my life," Barletta wrote. "Everything he did was art. He was endlessly creative and always tried to elevate his friends and everyone around him. He opened doors for guys like me and Jerry, and single-handedly put San Jose back on the map. Marc had the golden touch—whether it was on a skateboard, creating brands, or developing ad campaigns."

Johnson was named Thrasher Magazine's Skater of the Year in 2007, one of the biggest honors of his career. Johnson battled issues with alcohol in his life but finally got sober later in his life.

The skateboarding loss mourned Johnson's loss since the announcement.

Marc Johnson cause of death

Marc Johnson's cause of death has not been made public. While Johnson battled alcohol issues in his life, he was now sober and in a good mental headspace.

"He was sober, healthy, and full of life," Louis Barletta said of Johnson.