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Coroner's Office To Investigate Death Of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Instructor

Joe Camacho
Joe Camacho, a Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu instructor and competitor, was considered a pioneer in the world of mixed martial arts (MMA). (Photo credit: Paul Archuleta/FilmMagic/Getty Images)

WEST COVINA (CBSLA.com) — A police investigation was underway Monday in the death of a West Covina Jiu-Jitsu instructor, authorities said.

Joe Camacho, 41, of Ontario was transported from his girlfriend's residence to the hospital by paramedics after experiencing difficulty breathing, according to the West Covina Police Department.

Officials from Citrus Valley Health Partners, Queen of the Valley Hospital reported Camacho dead about 6:53 a.m., police said.

Camacho, a Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu instructor and competitor, was considered a pioneer in the world of mixed martial arts (MMA), where he fought professionally since 1997, according to MixedMartialArts.com.

Heon Sunday in a program sponsored by the North American Brazilian Jiu Jitsu Federation in Long Beach.

He had just competed in an MMA event in Long Beach this past weekend, according to police.

The cause of death has yet to be determined.

The Los Angeles County Coroner's Office was assigned to the investigation, authorities said.

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