The gaming world is in mourning following the sudden death of Vince Zampella, the visionary co-creator of the Call of Duty franchise and founder of Respawn Entertainment. Zampella passed away on December 21, 2025, at the age of 55 in a single-vehicle car crash on Angeles Crest Highway in Southern California.
Reports indicate his Ferrari veered off the road, struck a barrier, and caught fire. A passenger was ejected and also died. The California Highway Patrol is investigating, but no foul play is suspected.
The Accident: What Happened on Angeles Crest Highway
The crash occurred around 12:45 p.m. on December 21. Zampella was driving when the vehicle left the road, hit a concrete barrier, and burst into flames. He became trapped inside and died at the scene. The passenger was thrown from the car and later succumbed at a hospital.
Electronic Arts (EA), parent company of Respawn, issued a statement: “This is an unimaginable loss… Vince’s influence on the video game industry was profound and far-reaching. A friend, colleague, leader and visionary creator…”
Zampella leaves behind three children.
Vince Zampella’s Extraordinary Career: From Medal of Honor to Battlefield
Born on October 1, 1970, Vince Zampella entered the industry in the mid-1990s. Early credits include Medal of Honor: Allied Assault (2002).
In 2002, he co-founded Infinity Ward with Jason West and Grant Collier. Their breakthrough: Call of Duty (2003), which exploded into one of gaming’s biggest franchises.
After a high-profile dispute with Activision in 2010, Zampella and West founded Respawn Entertainment. Hits followed: Titanfall series, Apex Legends (massive battle royale), and Star Wars Jedi games.
EA acquired Respawn in 2017. In 2021, Zampella took charge of the Battlefield franchise, leading the successful rebound with Battlefield 6 in 2025—one of the year’s biggest launches.
His leadership emphasized player experience, innovation, and team empowerment.
Tributes from the Gaming Community
The industry reacts with profound grief. Respawn tweets: “We’re heartbroken by the passing of our founder and dear friend Vince Zampella.”
Geoff Keighley calls him “an extraordinary person – a gamer at heart, but also a visionary executive.”
Developers share stories of his mentorship and passion. Fans honor his legacy in Call of Duty, Apex Legends, and beyond.
Zampella’s work shaped modern shooters and inspired millions.
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Rest in peace, Vince Zampella—your games will live on forever.
