Paul Walker, known for his role in the ongoing The Fast and the Furious series, died this afternoon in a car accident in Santa Clarita, CA. He was 40. According to TMZ, the car Walker was in lost control and crashed into a tree. Authorities are currently investigating.
It is with great sadness to report that @RealPaulWalker has passed away. We will miss you. #RIP
— New Regency (@NewRegency) December 1, 2013
The actor's official accounts on social media confirmed the news this evening. According to his Facebook page, the accident took place during a charity event for the organization Reach Out Worldwide, which Walker helped found in 2010. Walker was a passenger while a friend was at the wheel. Both died in the crash.
It's with a heavy heart that we must confirm Paul Walker passed away today in a tragic car accident...MORE: http://t.co/9hDuJMH99M - #TeamPW
— Paul Walker (@RealPaulWalker) December 1, 2013
Universal Studios issued the following statement on the actor's death:
"All of us at Universal are heartbroken. Paul was truly one of the most beloved and respected members of our studio family for 14 years, and this loss is devastating to us, to everyone involved with the FAST AND FURIOUS films, and to countless fans. We send our deepest and most sincere condolences to Paul’s family."
According to USA Today, Walker had been home for the holidays and was due to return to the set of Fast and Furious 7 next week.
Update: The AP reports that the other passenger in the car was Roger Rodas, a friend of Walker's and owner of the Porsche sports car that crashed.