Industry mourns the loss of Vince Zampella after a fatal Ferrari 296 GTS crash in Los Angeles. Read the full story and safety insights.
A tragic accident on the Angeles Crest Highway in Los Angeles claimed the life of Vince Zampella, the co‑founder of the blockbuster Call of Duty franchise and the visionary behind Respawn Entertainment.
What Happened on the Highway?
Witnesses captured video of a bright red Ferrari 296 GTS roaring out of a tunnel and slamming into a concrete barrier. The impact ignited a massive fire, and first responders quickly pulled the driver from the wreckage. The force of the collision ejected the driver’s racing‑style bucket seat from the car, but the victim—later identified as Zampella—did not survive.
Who Was Vince Zampella?
Vince Zampella is a household name in the gaming world. He co‑created the Call of Duty series, later founding Respawn Entertainment, the studio behind hits such as Titanfall, Apex Legends and Star Wars Jedi: Survivor. His innovative approach to first‑person shooters reshaped the industry, earning him numerous awards and a fervent fanbase.
Ferrari 296 GTS: The Supercar in Question
The Ferrari 296 GTS, launched in April 2022, is the open‑top version of the hybrid 296 GTB. Under the hood sits a 3.0‑litre twin‑turbo V6 delivering 663 hp, paired with an electric motor for an additional 167 hp, pushing total output to 830 hp. The coupé can sprint from 0 to 100 km/h in just 2.9 seconds and tops out at 330 km/h.
Impact on the Gaming Community
Zampella’s untimely passing has sent shockwaves through the global gaming community. Colleagues, players, and industry leaders are sharing tributes, highlighting his creative genius and mentorship. Many are also using the moment to call attention to the inherent risks of handling high‑performance vehicles.
A Broader Safety Conversation
This tragedy echoes previous high‑profile losses, such as actor Paul Walker’s fatal Porsche crash and footballer Diogo Jota’s earlier accident. Experts caution that even seasoned drivers can be vulnerable when piloting cars with hundreds of horsepower, especially on demanding roadways.
Investigation Ongoing
Authorities in Los Angeles are currently investigating the cause of the crash. Factors under review include vehicle speed, road conditions, and potential mechanical failures. Updates will be provided as the investigation progresses.
Our thoughts are with Vince Zampella’s family, friends, and the millions of fans he inspired worldwide.