CNN
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Skilled rally driver and YouTube star Ken Block died in a snowmobile accident on Monday, his Hoonigan Racing crew 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 will probably be extremely missed. Please respect the household’s privateness at the moment whereas they grieve.”
The accident occurred at 2 p.m. when Block was driving a snowmobile down a steep slope in Wasatch County, Utah, based on 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 along with his household and mates 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 Footwear in 1994, which went on to turn into one of the recognizable skateboarding attire manufacturers on the planet.
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 received 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 mates.”
Block additionally gained fame for the Gymkhana YouTube collection through which he carried out driving stunts and drifts at completely different areas in the US and all over the world. The movies proved vastly well-liked and gained tons of of hundreds of thousands of views.
“In shock on the passing of Ken Block. Such a expertise that did a lot for our sport,” ex-Formulation One driver Jenson Button wrote on Twitter.
“He was a real visionary along with his personal distinctive model & infectious smile. Our sport misplaced top-of-the-line as we speak however extra importantly a terrific man.”
Block is survived by his spouse, Lucy, and three youngsters.
