RAGBRAI rider found dead in tent

A 74-year-old RAGBRAI rider was found dead inside his tent in Mason City early Thursday, police said.

Emergency responders found George “Frank” Brinkerhoff, of Sioux City, dead inside his tent at Parkers Woods Campground shortly before 6 a.m. Thursday, Mason City Police Sgt. Greg Scott said.

Brinkerhoff was participating in RAGBRAI, Scott said. He said he was unsure if Brinkerhoff was riding with a group or was with anyone when he was found.

Authorities responded after dispatchers received a report from a caller, Scott said. He said he did not know the relationship between the caller and Brinkerhoff.

A medical examiner responded to the scene, and has yet to determine the cause of death. Scott said it appears as if Brinkerhoff died due to natural causes.