Hoonigan Racing said on Monday that professional rally driver Ken Block, who subsequently became an internet star for his daring driving antics, died in a snowmobile accident at the age of 55.
Hoonigan confirmed Ken Block’s death in a snowmobile accident on Instagram, writing, “It is with the deepest sadness that we confirm Ken Block’s passing today.”
According to Reuters, the tragedy occurred in Wasatch County, Utah, and according to the Sheriff’s Office, Block was riding on a steep slope when his snowmobile flipped over and landed on him.
“He was pronounced dead at the scene from injuries incurred in the accident,” they said in a statement, adding that he had been riding with a group but was alone at the time of the collision.
Block, who began his career in rallying in 2005, was crowned Rookie of the Year in the 2005 Rally America Championship. He participated in the World Rally Championship and won multiple medals in rallycross at the X Games.
The American also co-founded the footwear brand DC Shoes and produced the Gymkhana film series, in which he drove on hazardous tracks and over obstacles. The series amassed millions of YouTube views.
In 2015, Block joined former Top Gear hosts Jeremy Clarkson, Richard Hammond, and James May in South Africa to film their motoring show Clarkson, Hammond & May Live.
»Ken Block, a rally driver and YouTube celebrity, died in a snowmobile accident«