The bad news came over the internet, then was quickly dismissed as a hoax by some sources. Sadly, this time the rumors were correct, and it has been confirmed that Paul Walker, star of the “Fast and Furious” Hollywood franchise, was killed in a car crash in California on Saturday.
Walker, 40, was apparently a passenger in the Porsche Carrera GT that was being driven by a friend. The single-vehicle crash happened in Santa Clarita, CA, where Walker was attending a car show organized by his Reach Out Worldwide charity. Officials say speed may have been a factor in the crash, which killed both Walker and the driver.
In a statement on Reach Out Worldwide’s Facebook page, the charity said, “It is with a truly heavy heart that we must confirm that Paul Walker passed away today in a tragic car accident while attending a charity event for Reach Out Worldwide. He was a passenger in a friend’s car, in which both lost their lives. We appreciate your patience as we too are stunned and saddened beyond belief by this news. Thank you for keeping his family and friends in your prayers during this very difficult time. We will do our best to keep you apprised on where to send condolences.” Reach Out Worldwide was founded to benefit victims of the Philippines typhoon.
Walker played Brian O’Conner in five of the six “Fast and Furious” films between 2001 and 2013. The most recent installment of the franchise was released in May. He is survived by a daughter.