Paul Walker Dead — ‘The Fast & The Furious’ Actor Dies In Car Accident
A rep for Paul told HollywoodLife.com, “Sadly, I must confirm that Paul did pass away this afternoon.” A statement was also posted on Paul’s Facebook page:
It is with a truly heavy heart that we must confirm that Paul Walker passed away today in a tragic car accident while attending a charity event for his organization Reach Out Worldwide. He was a passenger in a friend’s car, in which both lost their lives. We appreciate your patience as we too are stunned and saddened beyond belief by this news. Thank you for keeping his family and friends in your prayers during this very difficult time. We will do our best to keep you apprised on where to send condolences. – #TeamPW
The tragic accident reportedly occurred in Santa Clarita, which is north of Los Angeles, at around 3:30 p.m., according to the Santa Clarita Valley Signal. The Fast and the Furious star was in a Porsche when the driver, friend and business partner Roger Rodas, somehow lost control of the vehicle. It then slammed into multiple trees and then burst into flames.
[hl_youtube src=”https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tM6sUuVhcN8″ link=”https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tM6sUuVhcN8″ text=”Paul Walker Car Crash Video Surfaces “]
“Sheriffs deputies are currently investigating a two person accident,” Deputy Heischuber of the Santa Clarita Sheriff’s Station told HollywoodLife.com exclusively. “Two people were pronounced dead immediately at the scene. The coroner’s office are the ones who will determine the identity.” (Because Paul’s body is reportedly unidentifiable, the autopsy has been delayed.)
“Him and his buddy, his brother in arms at heart just decided to joyride, take a spin,” eyewitness Antonio Holmes told the Valley Signal. “Something we all do. We’re all car enthusiasts. … We’re all here driving, enjoying each other, and God must’ve needed help.”
Antonio, who said he was a friend of Paul’s, revealed that he and many others rushed to the scene to try and help, but it was of no use. “It was engulfed in flames. There was nothing. They were trapped. Employees, friends of the shop. We tried. We tried.”
Another eyewitness, Jim Torp, told the newspaper, “This was just a tragic accident that happened on a joyride.” Paul has been a longtime car enthusiast, and admitted he has 17 cars of his own.
The Life Of Paul Walker
The actor first gained fame when he starred in the 1999 film Varsity Blues. From there he became a household name, especially when he landed the role he is most known for — as Brian O’Connor in The Fast and the Furious movie series. Other films he starred in include Eight Below, Into the Blue, She’s All That, and Takers.
He is survived by his 15-year-old daughter, Meadow. She was reportedly at the fundraiser where the crash occurred, according to People.
This is such a brutal tragedy that has taken an actor who was still in his prime. He will be sorely missed. Our thoughts and prayers go out to his friends and family in this difficult time.
— Andrew Gruttadaro
More Paul Walker News:
- Paul Walker: Fans Devastated By Actor’s Death
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- Paul Walker’s Death: Celebs React On Twitter