CNN
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Skilled rally driver and YouTube star Ken Block died in a snowmobile accident on Monday, his Hoonigan Racing group introduced. He was 55.
“Ken was a visionary, a pioneer and an icon. And most significantly, a father and husband,” Hoonigan Racing stated in a press release. “He might be extremely missed. Please respect the household’s privateness presently whereas they grieve.”
The accident occurred at 2 p.m. when Block was driving a snowmobile down a steep slope in Wasatch County, Utah, in accordance with the Wasatch County Sheriff’s Workplace.
The snowmobile upended and landed on high of Block, the Sheriff’s Workplace stated, and he was later pronounced useless on the scene from accidents sustained within the accident.
“Mr. Block was driving with a gaggle however was alone when the accident occurred,” a press release from the Sherriff’s Workplace stated.
“The State Medical Examiner’s Workplace will decide the official reason behind dying. We’re saddened to listen to of the lack of Kenneth and our hearts are together with his household and associates so deeply affected.
“We thank all of our first responders for his or her continued service.”
Earlier than embarking on his rally driving profession, Block co-founded sportswear firm DC Sneakers in 1994, which went on to grow to be probably the most recognizable skateboarding attire manufacturers on the earth.
He started rallying in 2005 and two years later made his debut on the FIA World Rally Championship (WRC) circuit in Mexico. He began 25 WRC occasions and gained 5 X Video games medals in RallyCross between 2006 and 2015.
“Shocked and saddened to listen to the passing of a real icon of our sport,” stated Belgian rally driver Thierry Neuville. “A passionate racer and actual pioneer that impressed so many people. Relaxation in peace buddy. All my sympathies are with the household and associates.”
Block additionally gained fame for the Gymkhana YouTube sequence by which he carried out driving stunts and drifts at completely different places in america and around the globe. The movies proved massively fashionable and gained a whole lot of tens of millions of views.
“In shock on the passing of Ken Block. Such a expertise that did a lot for our sport,” ex-System One driver Jenson Button wrote on Twitter.
“He was a real visionary together with his personal distinctive type & infectious smile. Our sport misplaced top-of-the-line at this time however extra importantly an incredible man.”
Block is survived by his spouse, Lucy, and three kids.
