Professional rally car driver Ken Block has been tragically killed in a snowmobile accident on his ranch in Utah, police have confirmed.
Block died during the incident on Monday, according to local law enforcement.
He was 55 years old.
The Wasatch County Sheriff’s Office said that they received a phone call about a snowmobile accident in the Mill Hollow area around 2 p.m.
“The driver, Kenneth Block, 55-year-old male out of Park City, Utah, was riding a snowmobile on a steep slope when the snowmobile upended, landing on top of him,” police confirmed in a statement.
“He was pronounced deceased at the scene from injuries sustained in the accident.”
Law enforcement said that Block was riding with a group but was alone when the accident happened.
I’m speechless. Another legend gone entirely too soon. Ken Block was an incredibly huge inspiration to myself and so many others in the car community. He will definitely be missed. #RIP #KenBlock pic.twitter.com/ItNvzV4F9A
— Gavin Trace Simon (@itsjusta6_) January 3, 2023
Hoonigan Industries, which Block co-founded, announced his death in a statement posted on social media.
“It’s with our deepest regrets that we can confirm that Ken Block passed away in a snowmobile accident today,” the statement said.
“Ken was a visionary, a pioneer and an icon.
“And most importantly, a father and husband.
“He will be incredibly missed.”
Block co-founded the popular skate shoe company DC Shoes before he became a professional rally car driver.
His likable personality brought new audiences into the sport as many of his racing videos racked up millions of views on YouTube.
Block created the much-loved Gymkhana video series which featured the talented driver performing elaborate stunts and risky driving scenarios in closed-off urban environments.
He is survived by his wife and three children.
Block shared photographs from his ranch in Utah several days ago which featured images of snowmobiles.
However, it was unclear if any of those snowmobiles were used in the accident.
“This is how some mornings at my ranch in Utah look this time of year – freshly coated with snow!” Block tweeted.
“Luckily we have the Ski-doo sleds, @CanAm Mavericks (one on tracks!) and Defender, and the Kubota machinery to dig us out and keep the property maintained.”
This is how some mornings at my ranch in Utah look this time of year – freshly coated with snow! Luckily we have the Ski-doo sleds, @CanAm Mavericks (one on tracks!) and Defender, and the Kubota machinery to dig us out and keep the property maintained. pic.twitter.com/LXJG1A6yPr
— Ken Block (@kblock43) December 29, 2022
