'Harry Potter' And Mixed Martial Arts Star Dave Legeno Found Dead by Hiker In Death Valley at Age 50

Harry Potter actor and and mixed-marital arts star Dave Legeno has died in Death Valley, California at the age of 50.

Legeno's remains were discovered by a hiker. It is believed the actor was also hiking in the area when he passed. Authorities recovered the body by helicopter and identified the remains.

Temperatures in Death Valley often exceed 100 degrees Fahrenheit and have surpassed that number for the past several days. Death Valley has recorded some of the hottest and driest temperatures on Earth.

"It appears that Legeno died of heat related issues, but the Inyo County Coroner will determine the final cause of death," police said. "There are no signs of foul play."
Legeno is survived by an adult daughter.

The 6'3", 220 pound martial arts star, nicknamed "Death Wish," came to prominence as an actor in 2000, when he made his debut in Guy Ritchie's Snatch opposite Brad Pitt.

He appeared on several shows on British television including Bill and EastEnders, before making the successful transition to film. He was a League of Shadows warrior in Batman Begins, but really made his mark in the Harry Potter series. Legeno appeared in Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince and the two-part Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows as villain Fenrir Greyback.

Tributes are starting to pour in online. One of the first is from Tom Felton, who played Draco Malfoy in the series. Felton posted a picture of the two men together on Instagram, in their evil on-screen character poses. He said, "Dave Legeno. It was always a pleasure. He was a great talent with a heart of gold and always had time for anyone. Dave was a soft, kind gentleman off screen but had the skill to be the complete opposite on screen.He taught me lots, You will be missed mate xx #DaveLegeno."

via, Us Magazine, The Mirror