Actor Paul Walker Dead at 40

FAST AND FURIOUS franchise star Paul Walker has died Saturday afternoon in a car accident in Valencia, CA. Walker was 40 years old.

The actor's representatives confirmed the news, first reported by TMZ yesterday evening, in a post on his official Facebook page. It read: "It is with a truly heavy heart that we must confirm that Paul Walker passed away today in a tragic car accident while attending a charity event for his organization Reach Out Worldwide. He was a passenger in a friend's car, in which both lost their lives. We appreciate your patience as we too are stunned and saddened beyond belief by this news. Thank you for keeping his family and friends in your prayers during this very difficult time. We will do our best to keep you apprised on where to send condolences."

"Paul was truly one of the most beloved and respected members of our studio family for 14 years, and this loss is devastating to us, to everyone involved with the Fast and Furious films, and to countless fans. We send our deepest and most sincere condolences to Paul's family," a spokesperson for Universal said in a statement yesterday.

Walker and a friend were driving leaving a charity event for Reach Out Worldwide, driving home in a Porsche, which struck a light pole. Walker was the passenger.

Since the announcement of his untimely death, the actor's much of Hollywood has spoken up, sending their condolences and well wishes to his family via Twitter.

Walker's FAST AND FURIOUS co-star, Vin Diesel, took to Instagram to remember his late friend, posting a photo with the caption: Brother I will miss you very much. I am absolutely speechless. Heaven has gained a new Angel. Rest in Peace."

Dwayne Johnson - @TheRock: "All my strength, love & faith to the Walker family during this heartbreaking time. We find our strength.. in his light. Love you brother."

James Wan - @creepypuppet: "I am so beyond heartbroken right now. I can't process anything."

Ryan Phillippe - @RyanPhillippe: "Paul was a good dude. Conscientious & not caught up in Hollywood. He knew there was more to life & lived like it. Nice to know you brotha."

Walker is best known for starring in THE FAST AND THE FURIOUS franchise, as well as such films as VARSITY BLUES and INTO THE BLUE. His final films include VEHICLE, HOURS, FAST AND FURIOUS 6, PAWN SHOP CHRONICLES, and BRICK MANSIONS. Walker was currently filming the seventh FAST AND FURIOUS upon the time of his death.

Photo by: BEImages/Jim Smeal

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