Vince Zampella and an unidentified passenger were both killed in a tragic single-car accident on a scenic road north of Los Angeles. According to the California Highway Patrol, the two were in a 2026 Ferrari 296 GTS for an afternoon cruise when the vehicle was seen exiting a tunnel, veering off the road, and then hitting a concrete barrier, whereby the passenger was ejected and the vehicle caught fire. Zampella died at the scene, while the passenger later passed on at the hospital. NBC Channel 4 Los Angeles reports that a witness provided video of the car hitting the barrier shortly after leaving the tunnel. Vince Zampella was 55 at the time of his death.
To say that Zampella was a veteran of the gaming industry would be grossly understating what he achieved. While his career in the gaming industry could be said to have begun in the 1970’s, shortly after graduating college, it would really take off in the 1990’s after working on various Medal of Honor titles. He and Jason West would go on to create Infinity Ward and the Call of Duty franchise. Both would move to EA following a legal battle with Activision involving claims of unpaid royalties, and along with many of their team from Infinity Ward, would form Respawn Entertainment. As IGN reports, the video game hits came one after another thereafter with Titanfall 1-2, Apex Legends, and the Star Wars Jedi games, along with ongoing releases to the Call of Duty franchise, and then being put in charge of the Battlefield franchise following the launch of Battlefield 2042. EA issued the following statement regarding the tragic events of yesterday’s accident.
“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.”
-EA
Our sincerest condolences to his family, as his loss will be felt by many and his contributions will be recognized by generations to come. Infinity Ward also issued a statement regarding his passing.
Rest in peace Vince.
— Infinity Ward (@InfinityWard) December 22, 2025
As one of the founders of Infinity Ward and Call of Duty, you will always have a special place in our history.
Your legacy of creating iconic, lasting entertainment is immeasurable.
Our deepest condolences to Vince’s family and loved ones upon this…