- Vince Zampella, co-creator of Call of Duty, has died in a car crash.
- The accident happened on a mountain road north of Los Angeles.
- Electronic Arts confirmed his death on Monday.
- Tributes pour in for one of gaming’s most influential creators.
Vince Zampella, one of the most respected names in video game history and a co-creator of the blockbuster Call of Duty franchise, has died after a tragic car accident in Los Angeles.
According to reports by local broadcaster NBC4, the crash occurred on Sunday as Zampella was driving his Ferrari along a scenic mountain road north of the city. For reasons yet to be determined, the vehicle reportedly veered off the road, slammed into a concrete barrier, and burst into flames.
ATTENTION: Click “HERE” to join our WhatsApp group and receive News updates directly on your WhatsApp!
Confirming the incident, the California Highway Patrol (CHP) said both the driver and a passenger who was ejected from the vehicle died from their injuries.
“For unknown reasons, the vehicle veered off the roadway, struck a concrete barrier, and became fully engulfed,” the CHP said in a statement.
Videos shared online showed the wrecked cherry-red Ferrari completely burned, while investigators continue to determine the exact cause of the crash.
READ ALSO: Ronaldo Joins Fast & Furious Cast for Hollywood Debut
Zampella was widely celebrated for shaping modern shooter games. He co-founded Infinity Ward in 2002 and helped launch Call of Duty in 2003, a franchise that would grow into one of the most successful in gaming history, boasting over 100 million active players worldwide.
After leaving Activision, he founded Respawn Entertainment in 2010, the studio behind Titanfall, Apex Legends, and the Star Wars Jedi series. Electronic Arts acquired Respawn in 2017, later appointing Zampella to oversee the revival of the Battlefield franchise.
In a tribute, Electronic Arts described his death as a devastating loss to the industry.
“Vince’s influence on the video game industry was profound and far-reaching. His work helped shape modern interactive entertainment,” EA said.
Respawn Entertainment also honoured him, praising his leadership style and belief in creative freedom.
“Vince showed up every day believing in his teams, encouraging bold ideas, and putting players first,” the studio said.
Despite decades of success, Zampella often spoke humbly about fame. In a 2016 interview, he admitted he never imagined Call of Duty would reach such heights.
“You dream of the game being popular, but you’re never ready for that level of success,” he once said.
His death leaves a deep void in the gaming world, but his legacy will live on through the franchises that changed how millions experience video games.
