Infinity Ward and Respawn Entertainment co-founder Vince Zampella killed in car crash

Vince Zampella—the co-founder and former head of Infinity Ward, co-founder and head of Respawn Entertainment, and head of Ripple Effect Studios—died in a car crash on Southern California’s Angeles Crest Highway on December 21, according to an NBC4 Investigates report. He was 55 years old.

The single-vehicle accident was reported at about 12:45 p.m. The car veered off the road, hit a concrete barrier, and a passenger was ejected, according to the California Highway Patrol. The driver was trapped in the car fire and died at the scene, while the passenger died at the hospital.

Details about why the car veered off the road have yet to be determined.

Update 4:40 p.m.: Electronic Arts has provided Kotaku the following statement on Zampella’s death:

“This is an unimaginable loss, and our hearts are with Vince’s family, his loved ones, and all those touched by his work. Vince’s influence on the video game industry was profound and far-reaching. A friend, colleague, leader and visionary creator, his work helped shape modern interactive entertainment and inspired millions of players and developers around the world. His legacy will continue to shape how games are made and how players connect for generations to come.”