Vince Zampella, the co-creator of the popular video game series Call of Duty
Automotive Hot News

Automotive News: Renowned Video Game producer killed in Ferrari

Posted by AR1 staff

In the sun-drenched hills of Southern California’s San Gabriel Mountains, the Angeles Crest Highway winds like a ribbon through rugged terrain—a favorite among driving enthusiasts for its twisting curves and breathtaking views. On a crisp Sunday afternoon, December 21, 2025, that scenic route became the site of unimaginable tragedy.

Vince Zampella (pictured), the 55-year-old visionary behind some of the biggest blockbusters in gaming history, was behind the wheel of his gleaming red 2026 Ferrari 296 GTS. A passionate car collector, Zampella often shared glimpses of his luxury vehicles on social media, reveling in the thrill of high-performance machines much like the adrenaline-fueled worlds he created in games. The Ferrari, a hybrid powerhouse boasting 830 horsepower with its V6 engine and electric motor, embodied pure exhilaration—Ferrari’s own description promised it would “redefine the fun to drive.”

Accompanied by an unidentified passenger, Zampella was southbound on the two-lane highway around 12:45 p.m. As the car emerged from a tunnel, he was going far too fast for the road as it curves exiting the tunnel. For reasons still under investigation by the California Highway Patrol, the Ferrari veered sharply off the road, clipped a concrete barrier, and erupted into flames. The impact ejected the passenger, who was rushed to a hospital but succumbed to injuries. Zampella, trapped in the blazing wreckage, perished at the scene.

Graphic video footage, captured by bystanders and quickly circulating online, immortalized the horrifying moment: the red supercar speeding out of the tunnel, the sudden loss of control, the crash, and the inferno that followed. Shocked witnesses could be heard exclaiming in disbelief as they rushed toward the demolished vehicle, desperately trying to help amid the chaos.

Zampella’s life had been one of triumphs and bold risks. Co-founding Infinity Ward in 2002, he helped birth the Call of Duty franchise in 2003—a series that revolutionized first-person shooters and became one of the best-selling entertainment properties ever, with hundreds of millions of copies sold. After a high-profile departure from Activision, he co-founded Respawn Entertainment in 2010, delivering hits like Titanfall, Apex Legends, and the acclaimed Star Wars Jedi series. At the time of his death, he led Respawn as CEO, shaping modern gaming for generations.

The news sent shockwaves through the industry. Electronic Arts, Respawn’s parent company, called it “an unimaginable loss,” praising Zampella as a “visionary creator” whose work “inspired millions.” Tributes flooded in: The official Call of Duty account noted his enduring legacy, while Respawn described him as a “titan and legend” who shaped teams and games with profound impact. Battlefield’s team highlighted his leadership grounded in community care.

Survived by his three children—Quentin, Kyle, and Courtney—from his marriage to ex-wife Brigitte, Zampella leaves behind a legacy not just in code and pixels, but in the countless players and developers he influenced. In a career defined by pushing limits, his final moments echoed that same pursuit of thrill—ending abruptly on a mountain road, in a blaze of fire and speed.

The gaming world mourns a pioneer gone too soon, reminding us how fragile life can be, even for those who build immortal digital empires.