ST. PETERSBURG (Bay News 9) -- Robert Craig "Evel" Knievel has died at the age 69, according to his website.

His granddaughter, Krysten Knievel, confirmed the death.

Knievel was transported to Northside Hospital around 1:20 p.m. Friday for breathing problems.

He had been in failing health for years, suffering from
diabetes and idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis, an incurable condition that scarred his lungs.

He had undergone a liver transplant in 1999
after nearly dying of hepatitis C, likely contracted through a
blood transfusion after one of his bone-shattering spills.

His exploits made him an international icon in the 1970s.

He lived in the Feather sound area.