Rally Car Driver And Youtube Star Ken Block Dies In Snowmobile Accident

Pro rally driver Ken Block, the mastermind of Hoonigan and the Gymkhana video who became an internet sensation with his action sports marketing and motorsports filmmaking, has died aged 55 after a snowmobile accident, his team Hoonigan Racing said.Hoonigan Industries confirmed Block's death in a statement posted to its social media channels. "It's with deepest regrets that we can confirm that Ken Block passed away in a snowmobile accident today," the statement read. "Ken was a visionary, a pioneer and an icon. And most importantly, a father and husband. He will be incredibly missed."

The accident occurred in Utah's Wasatch County and the Sheriff's Office said that Block was riding on a steep slope when the snowmobile upended and landed on top of him.

Ken was one of the most famous rally car drivers in the world and a true legend of motorsport. Having begun his rallying career in 2005, his skill and car control became quickly apparent and Block aptly nabbed Rookie of the Year that season in the Rally America Championship. Since then, Block has continued to race in the series, racking up numerous overall wins as well as plenty of podium appearances.

In addition to his performance in the car, Block has been a driving force in shedding light on the sport of rally within the United States. His keen branding and marketing acumen, combined with his talents and skills behind the wheel, has also allowed Block to achieve global fame as a rally driver through his wildly successful viral Gymkhana series of videos. With all nine of his Gymkhana videos (plus all associated edits) clocking in at over 500 million views on the franchise in total, they have helped put Block in front of the world. The American also co-founded the sportswear company DC Shoes.

Block is survived by his wife, Lucy Block, and their three children.