Entertainment23 December, 20252 min read
Ferrari Veers Off Angeles Crest Highway, Kills Call of Duty Co-Creator Vince Zampella
Vince Zampella, 55, died in a single-vehicle crash on Angeles Crest Highway, San Gabriel Mountains. A Ferrari veered off the road, struck a concrete barrier and became engulfed in flames.
65 outlets told this the same way.
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Angeles Crest crash summary
A southbound Ferrari veered off the Angeles Crest Highway in the San Gabriel Mountains north of Los Angeles shortly after 12:43–12:45 p.m., struck a concrete barrier on a curve and erupted in flames. Video circulating online reportedly shows the car blasting out of a tunnel at high speed just before the impact.
“California Highway Patrol says a red 2026 Ferrari 296 GTS veered off the Angeles Crest Highway at Mile Post 62.70 shortly after 12:43 p.m., struck a concrete barrier where the road curves and erupted in flames.”
The California Highway Patrol and local broadcasters reported the crash killed two occupants, with one person trapped in the burning vehicle and another ejected. Authorities are investigating the circumstances and have not yet released final findings about the cause or contributing factors.
Ferrari crash coverage
Multiple outlets identify the car as a 2026 Ferrari 296 GTS, describing it as a high-performance, cherry-red convertible that left a tunnel at speed before impact; some automotive reports provide model details and performance figures while many news stories simply describe it as a Ferrari.
Witness and bystander video, widely shared on social media and obtained by local broadcasters, served as a key piece of early public evidence, though authorities say investigators will review such footage as part of the probe rather than depend solely on social clips.
Single-vehicle crash update
Authorities and multiple outlets report both occupants died from injuries sustained in the single-vehicle crash. The CHP and broadcasters said the driver was trapped and the passenger was ejected, with one person pronounced dead at the scene and the other later dying at a hospital. Officials said it is too early to determine whether alcohol, drugs, or other factors played a role, and the coroner and investigative units are reviewing evidence.
“The California Highway Patrol said the vehicle veered off the road, struck the barrier and became fully engulfed, and that both the driver and a passenger who was ejected died.”
Vince Zampella Obituary
Electronic Arts confirmed that veteran developer Vince Zampella had died and reports widely identified him as one of the two occupants. Zampella co‑founded Infinity Ward, helping create Call of Duty, and later founded Respawn Entertainment, known for Titanfall, Apex Legends, and Star Wars Jedi.
Industry statements and tributes described him as an influential creative leader who shaped modern first‑person shooters. News outlets profiled his long career, noted his recent role overseeing Battlefield projects at EA, and listed the major franchises associated with his name.
Media coverage variations
Tabloids and some local outlets foreground graphic footage and dramatic detail. Western mainstream outlets emphasize confirmed facts, investigation status, and career retrospectives. Asian and West Asian outlets often combine factual reporting with broader industry context and commercial milestones.
“Graphic footage shows the car speeding out of a tunnel, colliding with the barrier and catching fire; bystanders shout, then rush in and drag what appears to be a passenger from the burning wreck.”
Alternative and gaming-industry outlets add studio histories, quotes from colleagues, and community reactions. Across the board, reporters note investigations remain open and officials have not yet released a formal cause.