Local news:
Vince Zampella, the video game developer behind some of the world’s most successful gaming franchises, has died in a car crash aged 55.
A red Ferrari veered off the road about 12.45pm on December 21, crashing on Angeles Crest Hwy in the San Gabriel Mountains near Los Angeles, the California Highway Patrol said.
Video footage from a witness shows the Ferrari speeding out of a tunnel, hitting a concrete barrier and bursting into flames.
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The driver, Zampella, was trapped inside the burning wreckage and died at the scene, police confirmed.
The passenger was thrown from the vehicle by the force of the crash and later died in hospital, highway police told USA Today.
Zampella was a founder and former CEO of Infinity Ward, the studio that developed Call of Duty and turned it into one of the most successful franchises in video game history.
He later founded Respawn Entertainment in 2010, which was acquired by Electronic Arts (EA) in 2017.
Infinity Ward paid tribute to its co-founder in a statement.
““Rest in peace Vince. As one of the founders of Infinity Ward and Call of Duty, you will always have a special place in our history. Your legacy of creating iconic, lasting entertainment is immeasurable,” the statement said.
“Our deepest condolences to Vince’s family and loved ones upon this terrible tragedy.”
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Zampella’s death was confirmed by gaming company EA, which said the industry had lost one of its most influential figures.
“This is an unimaginable loss, and our hearts are with Vince’s family, his loved ones, and all those touched by his work,” a statement said.
“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.”
Under his leadership, Respawn produced blockbuster titles including Titanfall, Apex Legends and the Star Wars: Jedi series. Zampella also went on to oversee the Battlefield franchise at EA.
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