Credited from: LEMONDE
Vince Zampella, the acclaimed co-creator of the widely popular video game franchise Call of Duty, has tragically died in a car crash at the age of 55. The accident occurred on the scenic Angeles Crest Highway in California, where Zampella was driving a Ferrari that veered off the road and crashed into a concrete barrier, according to reports from BBC, South China Morning Post, and Los Angeles Times.
Authorities reported that Zampella's Ferrari struck the barrier shortly after exiting a tunnel, resulting in the vehicle catching fire. Zampella was pronounced dead at the scene, while a passenger in the car succumbed to injuries after being taken to the hospital, as confirmed by Al Jazeera and NPR.
Zampella was a towering figure in the gaming industry, best known for his pivotal role in creating Call of Duty and founding Respawn Entertainment, which developed critically acclaimed titles such as Titanfall and Apex Legends. His influence on video gaming was profound, with Electronic Arts stating that "Vince's influence on the video game industry was profound and far-reaching," which was echoed by several sources, including India Times and Le Monde.
In addition to his work on Call of Duty, Zampella also played a crucial role in revitalizing the Battlefield franchise. His career began in the 1990s, and he co-founded Infinity Ward before moving on to create Respawn in 2010. His legacy within the gaming community is underscored by tributes from colleagues and fans alike, who recognized his contributions to the industry, according to India Times and Channel News Asia.