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US sports icon, 35, dies after motorbike crash as fans mourn 'incredibly sad' death

Former baseball star Jesus Montero, 35, has died after a motorcycle crash left him in an induced coma in his native Venezuela as tributes have poured in for the star

[Jesus Montero, 35, has died]

Jesus Montero, 35, has died

Baseball has been left in mourning after the tragic death of Jess Montero, 35.

Montero suffered severe injuries when his bike hit a pickup truck in his home country Valencia, Venezuela earlier this month. He had been in an induced coma, but died at Valencia City Hospital over the weekend.

In a statement, one of his former team, the New York Yankees said: "The Yankees are deeply saddened to learn of the passing of Jess Montero. We send our sincerest condolences to his family and loved ones."

And more tributes have been paid to the star who was once described as the best Venezuelan hitting prospect since Miguel Cabrera.

One fan shared on social media: "May he rest in peace. I have fond memories of pulling his baseball cards and watching him play when I was a kid. Its incredibly sad to see someone pass away so young, regardless of whether they were a professional baseball player or not."

[Jesus Montero was involved in a motorcycle crash in his native country]

Jesus Montero was involved in a motorcycle crash in his native country

"Rest in peace, Jess Montero. Once a fount of hope and excitement in our world. Far too young for anyone to go," a second said.

While a third posted: "I remember being so excited for Jesus Montero being called up to the big leagues. So sad to hear he passed away at 35 from a motorcycle accident."

And another added: "Rest easy, Jesus Montero."

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Montero had been a minor league prospect - appearing in the All-Star Futures game twice - before debuting for the New York Yankees in September 2011.

He would spend one season with the Yankees before moving west to the Seattle Mariners.

In four seasons with Seattle from he hit 24 home runs and drove in 92 runs across 208 games as a catcher, first baseman, and designated hitter.

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