Vince Zampella, Call of Duty co-creator and Respawn head, dies at 55

The video game industry suffered a loss this Sunday. Vince Zampella, studio head of Respawn Entertainment and a pivotal figure in the creation of the Call of Duty franchise, died at the age of 55. According to reports from NBC4 Investigates, the fatal incident occurred Sunday afternoon on the Angeles Crest Highway, a scenic route north of Los Angeles in the San Gabriel Mountains.

Authorities reported a single-car crash at approximately 12:45 p.m. The California Highway Patrol (CHP) stated that the vehicle, traveling southbound, veered off the road and struck a concrete barrier. The impact caused the car to catch fire, trapping the driver inside. Tragically, the driver—identified as Zampella—died at the scene. A passenger, who was ejected from the vehicle during the collision, succumbed to their injuries after being transported to a hospital. The causéof the crash remains under investigation.

A Legacy of Innovation

Vince Zampella’s career is defined by his ability to craft experiences that resonate deeply with players. He co-founded Infinity Ward, the studio that launched the massive Call of Duty phenomenon, forever changing the landscape of first-person shooters with cinematic storytelling and accessible multiplayer.In 2010, Zampella co-founded Respawn Entertainment in Chatsworth, a studio that would later be acquired by EA in 2017. Most recently, Zampella was leading an EA studio team in Playa Vista, tasked with revitalizing the iconic Battlefield franchise. His philosophy was always clear: build games that feel good to play and treat the audience with respect. His sudden departure leaves a void in the leadership of these major projects, but the foundation he built ensures his teams have a clear vision to follow.May he Rest in Peace.

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