Take a look at this Horror moment Call of Duty Creator KILLED in Ferrari Fireball Crash!
In a devastating blow to the gaming world and broader entertainment community, Vince Zampella, co-creator of the Call of Duty franchise and founder of Respawn Entertainment, was killed in a fiery sports car crash in California on December 21, 2025. Multiple news outlets report that the 55-year-old developer died when the Ferrari 296 GTS he was driving veered off a scenic mountain road, struck a concrete barrier, and exploded into flames.
Terrifying Crash Caught on Video
Video circulating on social media shows the red Ferrari emerging from a tunnel on the Angeles Crest Highway, a windy, two-lane road north of Los Angeles. For reasons that remain under investigation, the vehicle lost control just after exiting the tunnel and slammed into a concrete barrier. The crash was captured on video and widely shared online.
Within seconds of impact, the car erupted into a massive fireball, and bystanders rushed to the scene. Authorities say Zampella was trapped inside the burning wreckage and died at the scene. A passenger was ejected from the vehicle and later died in a hospital.
Who Was Vince Zampella?
Vincent Walter Zampella II was a pioneering figure in the video game industry. Born October 1, 1970, Zampella rose from early roles in the late 1990s to co-found Infinity Ward, the studio behind the original Call of Duty, which launched in 2003. Under his leadership, Call of Duty became one of the most successful and influential gaming franchises ever, selling hundreds of millions of copies worldwide.
After parting ways with Activision, Zampella founded Respawn Entertainment in 2010, creating critically acclaimed titles such as Titanfall, Apex Legends, Star Wars Jedi: Fallen Order, and contributing to the evolution of the Battlefield franchise. His leadership helped Respawn become a major creative force in modern gaming before its acquisition by Electronic Arts.
Reaction and Tributes
The news of Zampella’s death has prompted tributes from industry colleagues, fans, and family. Electronic Arts described him as “a friend, colleague, leader and visionary creator” whose influence “was profound and far-reaching.” His daughter Courtney honored him on social media, calling him her “best friend” and sharing cherished memories.
Crash Details Under Investigation
The California Highway Patrol (CHP) confirmed the crash occurred around midday on the mountain highway. The Ferrari reportedly veered off the road for unknown reasons before the collision and subsequent fire. Officials have not released details on whether speed, weather conditions, mechanical failure, alcohol, or other factors played a role, and investigations are ongoing.
Angeles Crest Highway is known for its scenic views but also for a history of high-speed crashes due to its twisting turns and climbing elevation changes.
Legacy of a Gaming Visionary
Zampella’s contributions to gaming shaped the first-person shooter genre and expanded gaming’s cultural reach. His work on Call of Duty helped define an era of military shooter games, and Respawn’s successes broadened the landscape with innovative mechanics and blockbuster titles.
His sudden death marks a profound loss for the global gaming community, developers, and millions of players whose lives were touched by the worlds he helped create.
