Respawn Entertainment Co-Founder Dies in Tragic Car Crash, Gaming Community Mourns
December 22, 2025
Tributes poured in from colleagues and members of the gaming community, highlighting his impact on modern shooters, live-service games, and studio culture.
The Sun and related outlets are cited in coverage, and reporters note that more details will follow as the story develops.
A standard policy reminder about comments from The Seattle Times is included and does not affect the obituary content.
The piece credits Gilbert Flores for photography used with the article.
BBC Breakfast coverage is referenced, with availability on BBC iPlayer.
There is mention of a new version of a related game in development, though specifics are not detailed in the text.
Fortune’s Workplace Innovation Summit in May 2026 is promoted within the article, signaling ongoing corporate event coverage.
Indy100 and related studios’ statements are cited among broader gaming-industry coverage.
The obituary profile notes the subject’s impact and legacy, while full details require access to the article’s subscription content.
A major figure in the video game industry, including leading Respawn Entertainment and contributing to the Call of Duty franchise through Infinity Ward, has died in a single-vehicle crash north of Los Angeles on December 21.
The crash resulted in the death of the vehicle’s driver at the scene and the passenger later dying in hospital; authorities have not yet confirmed the exact cause of the crash.
iXBT.games is identified as the tribute’s source, with the original piece linked at se7en.ws.
Summary based on 216 sources
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Sources

BBC News • Dec 23, 2025
Vince Zampella, Call of Duty co-creator, dies in California car crash
The Guardian • Dec 22, 2025
Vince Zampella, co-creator of Call of Duty video game series, dies aged 55
The Washington Post • Dec 22, 2025
Vince Zampella didn’t just make hit games. He changed the medium.
USA TODAY • Dec 22, 2025
Call of Duty developer Vince Zampella killed in Ferrari crash: Report