Prolific video game designer and industry leader, Vince Zampella, died in a fatal crash on Sunday afternoon on Los Angeles’ Angeles Crest Highway. The 55-year-old, head of Respawn Entertainment, was riding a Ferrari that had just exited a tunnel on the winding two-lane road when it slammed into a concrete barrier and caught fire. The accident sent shockwaves through the gaming community and the broader public.
The Fatal Crash
The single-car crash was reported at about 12:45 p.m. on the scenic road north of Los Angeles in the San Gabriel Mountains. According to the California Highway Patrol, the southbound Ferrari veered off the road just after exiting a tunnel, hit a concrete barrier, and a passenger was ejected. The driver, Zampella, was trapped in the ensuing car fire, the CHP said.
He died at the scene, and the passenger died at a hospital, authorities told NBC4 Investigates. Details about the passenger’s identity were not immediately available. No information yet explains what caused the vehicle to leave the road.
A witness provided video of the crash involving a 2026 Ferrari 296 GTS to authorities that shows the red car slamming into the barrier just after exiting the tunnel. The six-figure, mid-engine sports car powered by a hybrid twin-turbo V-6 is capable of 819-plus horsepower. The footage confirms the vehicle’s trajectory and the severity of the impact.
The crash occurred on a winding forest road that overlooks Los Angeles and the San Gabriel Valley, a route known for its scenic beauty and challenging turns. The area is popular with drivers seeking a scenic drive, but the incident highlights the risks of high-speed vehicles on such roads. Investigators are still assessing the exact sequence of events that led to the collision.
A Career That Shaped Gaming
Zampella’s career spans more than two decades and includes the creation of some of the world’s best-selling video games. He co-founded Chatsworth-based Respawn Entertainment in 2010, a studio that was acquired by EA in 2017. Respawn is best known for titles such as Titanfall, Titanfall 2, Apex Legends, and STAR WARS Jedi: Fallen Order.
Before founding Respawn, Zampella served as the CEO of Infinity Ward, the studio behind the hugely successful Call of Duty franchise. His leadership at Infinity Ward helped shape the first-person shooter genre and cemented his reputation as an influential designer. He was also involved in developing Battlefield games while leading an EA studio team based in Playa Vista.
Zampella’s influence on the video game industry is widely recognized. He is described as a visionary creator who helped shape modern interactive entertainment and inspired millions of players and developers worldwide. His legacy continues to impact how games are made and how players connect across generations.
In addition to his studio leadership, Zampella contributed to game design, narrative, and technical innovation across multiple franchises. He mentored emerging talent and fostered a culture of creativity at both Infinity Ward and Respawn. His work has left a lasting imprint on the industry’s evolution.
The loss of Zampella is felt deeply by colleagues, friends, and the gaming community. Many have highlighted his role as a friend, colleague, and leader in the industry. His passing marks the end of an era for the studios he helped build.
Reaction from EA
EA released a statement calling Zampella’s impact on the world of video games ‘profound and far-reaching.’ The company expressed its grief, saying, “This is an unimaginable loss, and our hearts are with Vince’s family, his loved ones, and all those touched by his work,” EA said in the statement.
EA also added, “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.”
The statement underscored the personal and professional impact Zampella had on the company and the industry at large. EA highlighted his visionary leadership and the creative culture he fostered at Respawn. The company’s tribute reflects the deep respect he earned from peers.
EA’s announcement came shortly after the crash, as the company sought to honor Zampella’s memory publicly. The statement was shared across EA’s social media channels and on the Respawn website. It served as a formal acknowledgment of his contributions.
The reaction from EA illustrates the broader industry’s mourning. Many gaming news outlets reported on the statement, noting the weight of the loss. The tribute also prompted reflections on Zampella’s legacy in gaming history.
Witness Video and Car Specs
The 2026 Ferrari 296 GTS that crashed is a high-performance model featuring a 3.9-liter V-8 engine combined with an electric motor. The hybrid powertrain delivers a combined output that exceeds 800 horsepower, making it one of the most powerful road cars in production. The vehicle’s design emphasizes aerodynamics and speed.
The video captured by a bystander shows the Ferrari emerging from a tunnel, accelerating down a narrow mountain road, and then losing control before striking the concrete barrier. The footage also shows the vehicle’s interior as it caught fire, illustrating the severity of the impact. The crash occurred at a high speed, contributing to the vehicle’s inability to stay on the road.
The California Highway Patrol released the footage to the public to aid in the investigation and to provide transparency about the incident. The authorities have not yet released a detailed report on the cause of the crash. Witness statements and video evidence are being examined for clues.
The incident has sparked discussion about the safety of high-speed vehicles on winding mountain roads. Experts in automotive safety have pointed to the need for better signage and road design to prevent similar accidents. The crash serves as a reminder of the risks associated with luxury sports cars on public roads.
The 2026 Ferrari 296 GTS is part of Ferrari’s new generation of hybrid sports cars, which include the 296 GTB and 296 GT3. The model is known for its sleek styling and advanced technology. The car’s high power output and lightweight construction make it a sought-after vehicle among enthusiasts.
Key Takeaways
Key Takeaways
- Vince Zampella, 55, died in a Ferrari crash on Los Angeles’ Angeles Crest Highway.
- The crash involved a 2026 Ferrari 296 GTS that struck a concrete barrier and caught fire.
- EA released a statement mourning Zampella’s profound influence on the video game industry.
Closing
The tragic accident underscores the fragility of life and the impact of sudden loss on communities. Vince Zampella’s legacy as a visionary game designer continues to inspire players and developers worldwide. His passing is a profound loss for the industry and for those who admired his work.
