American driving legend Ken Block has died in a snowmobile crash.
Known to millions as the star of “gymkhana” stunt driving videos, Block was a hero to driving enthusiasts around the world.
He co-founded skate brand DC Shoes before turning his attention to Motorsport, competing in rally racing on the international stage.
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Block shot to fame in 2008, when a “gymkhana practice” video featuring lurid slides in a modified Subaru attracted millions of views.
He went on to create blockbuster videos featuring precision driving in high-performance cars, often risking his life to film the perfect stunt.
The accomplished racer became more than a YouTube star by creating the Hoonigan media empire. Its last video, featuring stunt driving by fellow rally driver and former motocross rider Travis Pastrana, has attracted more than 12 million views in a month.
Police from the Wasatch County Sheriff’s Office in Utah said Block “was riding a snowmobile on a steep slope when the snowmobile up-ended, landing on top of him”.
“He was pronounced deceased at the scene from injuries sustained in the accident,” police said.
Block’s death at 55 years of age came as a shock to the automotive community, prompting tributes from car enthusiasts, companies and sporting bodies.
Formula 1 world champion Jenson Button said he was “in shock” at the passing of Ken Block, describing him as “such a talent that did so much for our sport”.
“He was a true visionary with his own unique style & infectious smile,” Button said.
The official Gran Turismo video game account tweeted that Block was “a legend lost too soon”.
Fighter and social media star Jake Paul tweeted that Block was his “childhood hero”.
Block tweeted photos of his snowmobile adventures in the days leading up to his tragic death.
The racing legend’s last tweet featured a project car completed by his 16-year-old daughter Lia, who follows in his footsteps as a passionate car lover.