The video game visionary and developer Vince Zampella, who helped usher in a new era of FPS games, died in a car accident at the age of 55 on Sunday, December 21st, 2025. He was killed in a crash on Southern California’s Angeles Crest Highway.

Zampella helped found Respawn Entertainment and is the former CEO of Infinity Ward, who helped revolutionize gaming with the Call of Duty series. He was recently working on the Battlefield series with EA.

The crash was a single-car accident where they veered off the road and hit a concrete barrier and ejected the passenger. He died at the scene, according to the CHP. The driver was trapped in the car and died in the ensuing fire. It’s unclear which one was Zampella.

Zampella co-founded Respawn Entertainment in 2010 after his departure from Infinity Ward. They were acquired by EA in 2017 and have made games like Titanfall, Titanfall 2, Apex Legends, and Star Wars Jedi: Fallen Order.

Here is a statement from EA about Vince’s passing:

“This is an unimaginable loss, and our hearts are with Vince’s family, his loved ones, and all those touched by his work. Vince’s influence on the video game industry was profound and far-reaching. A friend, colleague, leader and visionary creator, his work helped shape modern interactive entertainment and inspired millions of players and developers around the world. His legacy will continue to shape how games are made and how players connect for generations to come.”

Join us in celebrating his work and the titanic things he’s done for video games.

RIP.