American rally star Ken Block has passed away in a freak accident involving a snowmobile.
The 55-year-old professional rally driver was a visionary, pioneer, and racing icon as well as a dedicated father and husband who died on January 2 after a snowmobile upended and crushed him during a ride in Wasatch County, Utah.
According to the reports, Block was going up a steep slope when the accident took place. While he was with a team at the time, he appeared to be alone on the snowmobile and no one else was injured in the accident.
Unfortunately, the rally icon was pronounced dead on the scene after being crushed by the vehicle.
Block was best known for his achievements as a rally driver of the Hoonigan Racing Division and for winning several medals in the X Games.
Besides competing in various sports events including motocross and snowboarding, the 55-year-old also co-founded DC Shoes and ran a YouTube channel featuring videos of dangerous stunts and tracks.
Block also appeared in two episodes of Top Gear in which he reviewed British cars.
“It’s with our deepest regrets that we can confirm that Ken Block passed away in a snowmobile accident today,” Block’s Hoonigan Racing Division team confirmed in a statement.
“Ken was a visionary, a pioneer, and an icon. And most importantly, a father and husband. He will be incredibly missed. Please respect the family’s privacy at this time while they grieve.”
Meanwhile, the Wasatch County Sheriff’s Office confirmed that the rally driver was pronounced dead on the scene after suffering severe injuries.
“He [Block] was pronounced deceased at the scene from injuries sustained in the accident,” they said.
Paying their respects to the icon was also the official FIA World Rallycross Championship account: “The World RX family is saddened to learn of the passing of Ken Block.
“His loss leaves a huge hole in our sport, but his legacy as a visionary and inspiration to millions around the world will live long. We extend our sincere condolences to his wife Lucy and children. RIP Ken.”
Our thoughts are with Ken’s family and friends during this challenging time.
Recommended Video For You!
Footage Shows A Deer Hitting A Motorcyclist In The City