Video game developer Vince Zampella died on Sunday following a single-vehicle crash on Southern California’s Angeles Crest Highway, authorities confirmed. Zampella, 55, was a prominent figure in the video game industry and served as the head of Respawn Entertainment.
According to the California Highway Patrol, the crash occurred around 12:45 p.m. on Sunday on the scenic mountain road north of Los Angeles in the San Gabriel Mountains. Authorities said a southbound vehicle left the roadway, struck a concrete barrier, and caught fire.
Details of the Angeles Crest Highway Crash
The California Highway Patrol said the driver was trapped in the vehicle after the crash and died at the scene. A passenger was ejected from the car upon impact and was transported to a hospital, where they later died.
Authorities told NBC4 that both occupants of the vehicle were killed. The cause of the crash has not yet been disclosed.
Vince Zampella’s Career in the Video Game Industry
Vince Zampella was a major force in modern video game development. He previously served as chief executive of Infinity Ward, the studio behind the Call of Duty franchise, and later led Respawn Entertainment.
Zampella’s work spanned decades and included leadership roles across dozens of titles. His influence extended from early production work to executive oversight of major franchises that shaped the first-person shooter genre.
Infinity Ward and the Rise of Call of Duty
Zampella co-founded Infinity Ward in 2002 and played a central role in launching Call of Duty in 2003. The franchise expanded rapidly, with later titles setting sales records and defining modern multiplayer gameplay.
His tenure at Infinity Ward included executive leadership on landmark releases that established Call of Duty as a global gaming powerhouse.
Respawn Entertainment and Later Projects
After leaving Infinity Ward in 2010, Zampella founded Respawn Entertainment. The studio released Titanfall, followed by Titanfall 2, and later achieved massive success with Apex Legends.
Under his leadership, Respawn also developed Star Wars Jedi: Fallen Order and Star Wars Jedi: Survivor, expanding its portfolio beyond shooter games.
Vince Zampella Net Worth and Legal Disputes
Vince Zampella’s net worth was estimated at around $40 million, largely stemming from his leadership roles at Infinity Ward and Respawn Entertainment.
He was involved in a high-profile lawsuit against Call of Duty publisher Activision in 2010 over royalties and bonuses tied to the franchise. The case was settled in 2012, reportedly resulting in a payout in the tens of millions of dollars.
Vince Zampella Family
Zampella was married to Brigitte Zampella for 18 years, and the couple had three children together. The two divorced in 2015, citing irreconcilable differences.
He is survived by his children. Further family details were not disclosed.
