In what is undoubtedly shocking and tragic news, Fast and Furious star Paul Walker has died in a car crash this afternoon. Details on the circumstances surrounding Walker’s death are still emerging, however, from what’s been reported, it sounds like his car hit a tree or post and then caught fire. Walker and someone else in the car are both said to have died in the accident. It doesn't sound like there were any other cars involved in the accident.
TMZ posted the news, updating it recently to add that a representative for the actor has confirmed Walker’s death. The site reports that the accident happened in Santa Clarita, California. Multiple sources connected with the 40-year-old actor confirmed the news, though it’s unclear whether or not Walker was behind the wheel when the accident happened. Only that the driver lost control somehow and the car slammed into a post or a tree and burst into flames. Sources also say that Walker was in Santa Clarita for a car show to support the Phillippines typhoon relief effort.
UPDATE: This post was shared on Walker's Facebook page, stating that he was a passenger in a friend's car:
Post by Paul Walker.
Paul Walker’s credits go back to the 80s, with roles in Highway to Heaven, Charles in Charge and Who’s the Boss? among his earliest roles. He graduated to features in the 90s, playing the good-looking guy in films like Varsity Blues, Pleasantville and She’s all That, but it wasn’t until 2001 when he became much more recognizable for his starring role in The Fast and the Furious, which went on to be the franchise that really put him on the map. He was among the stars of the recent sequel Fast & Furious 6, and was expected to return to his role as Brian for Fast & Furious 7, which is still listed as "filming," on IMDB.
We'll keep you posted if additional information on the circumstances surrounding Walker's death emerge. In the meantime, our thoughts go out to his friends and family in their time of loss.
