Call of Duty co-creator Vince Zampella dies in Los Angeles car crash

Call of Duty co-creator Vince Zampella dies in Los Angeles car crash

December, 23 2025

(Web Desk): Vince Zampella, co-creator of the globally acclaimed Call of Duty franchise, has died in a tragic car crash near Los Angeles, Electronic Arts confirmed, sending shockwaves through the gaming industry.

Vince Zampella, one of the most influential figures in modern video gaming and the co-creator of the blockbuster Call of Duty series, has died following a fatal car crash in Los Angeles. He was 55.

According to local broadcaster NBC4, the incident occurred on Sunday when Zampella was driving his Ferrari along a scenic mountain road north of Los Angeles. The vehicle reportedly veered off the roadway, struck a concrete barrier, and burst into flames. The California Highway Patrol said both the driver and a passenger were killed, while the exact cause of the crash remains under investigation.

Electronic Arts (EA), the global gaming giant, confirmed Zampella’s death on Monday, calling it an “unimaginable loss” for the gaming world. In a statement, the company praised his “profound and far-reaching influence” on interactive entertainment.

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Zampella co-founded Infinity Ward in 2002 and played a pivotal role in launching Call of Duty in 2003. Originally set during World War II, the first-person shooter franchise went on to redefine the genre, evolving into modern and futuristic warfare settings. The series has since sold more than 500 million copies worldwide, making it one of the best-selling video game franchises in history.

After departing Activision, Zampella founded Respawn Entertainment in 2010, which later became a subsidiary of EA. Under his leadership, Respawn delivered critically acclaimed titles such as Titanfall, Apex Legends, and the Star Wars Jedi series, including Jedi: Fallen Order and Jedi: Survivor.

Following EA’s acquisition of Respawn in 2017, Zampella took on broader leadership responsibilities, including overseeing the revival of the Battlefield franchise. Colleagues and industry leaders have credited him with empowering creative teams, encouraging innovation, and prioritising player experience.

In its tribute, EA described Zampella as a visionary creator, trusted leader, and mentor whose legacy will continue to shape how games are developed and experienced for generations. Fans and developers worldwide have taken to social media to mourn his passing, hailing him as a pioneer who transformed the global gaming landscape.