Rally driver and YouTube sensation Ken Block, a trailblazer and icon, tragically passed away in a snowmobile mishap at the age of 55. Hoonigan Racing paid tribute, stating, "Ken was a visionary, pioneer, and icon. Most importantly, a loving father and husband. He will be deeply missed. Please respect the family's privacy during their time of grief."
The incident took place around 2 PM in the Mill Hollow region of Park City, Utah. According to Wasatch County Sheriff's Office, Block was snowmobiling down a steep slope with a group of friends when the accident ensued. The snowmobile rolled over, leaving him critically injured. Medical officials later pronounced him dead at the site of the accident.
The Wasatch County Sheriffs Office reported that Block was alone at the time of the incident but had been snowmobiling with a group earlier. The State Medical Examiner's Office will release the official cause of death at a later date.
News of Block's passing sparked a wave of sadness, with condolences pouring in from both the auto racing and YouTube communities. Block was somewhat of a sensation on YouTube due to his popular "Gymkhana" series, dropping jaw-dropping stunts and drifts at various locations worldwide.
His fervor for racing and pioneering spirit inspired countless others. As a rally driver, he competed in the FIA World Rally Championship (WRC) and showcased his prowess at familiar events. Having founded DC Shoes in 1994, he was also known for his achievements in the skateboarding world.
Block leaves behind his wife, Lucy, and their three children.
Contributions to this news article were made by Chris Boyette and Taylor Romine of CNN.
Ken Block, a renowned motorsport icon, mirrored success in Rallycross competitions and won five medals in X-Games RallyCross events. Long before becoming a legend in the world of rally racing, Block made significant strides as a co-founder of DC Shoes, which eventually became a global sensation in skateboarding apparel.
Block's YouTube series "Gymkhana" brought him renowned fame, showcasing stunts and drifts at various locations globally. These videos have garnered immense popularity, with millions of views.
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Ken Block passed away in a snowmobiling accident on January 3, 2023, in the Mill Hollow region of Park City, Utah. According to reports, Block was snowmobiling with a group of friends when he lost control of his vehicle and was later found unconscious under the snowmobile, which had rolled over him. Based on available sources, the exact cause of the accident has not been specified, but the incident led to fatal injuries for Block.
The news of his passing was met with widespread shock and sadness in the auto racing and YouTube communities, recognizing his significant contributions to both fields.
[1] Barnes, M. (2023, January 4). Rally driver and YouTube sensation Ken Block dies at age 55 in Utah snowmobile accident. CNN. [] [2] Paddon, D. (2023, January 4). Ken Block, Gymkhana Star and Rally Driver, Dead at 55. Autoweek. []