Anton Yelchin has died at the age of 27.
The ‘Star Trek’ actor reportedly lost his life after he was trapped by his own car in a freak accident in Los Angeles in the early hours of Sunday (19.06.16) morning.
According to TMZ, Anton’s friend had got worried when the actor failed to show up to a meeting, so he went to his house in San Fernando Valley and found him "pinned between his car and a brick mailbox, which was attached to a security gate."
The engine was still running and the car was in neutral.
A spokesperson for the actor has confirmed his sad passing, but did not verify his cause of death.
They said only: "Actor Anton Yelchin was killed in a fatal traffic collision early this morning.
"His family requests you respect their privacy at this time."
Police are currently investigating his death but don’t suspect foul play.
Russian-born Anton was best known for playing Chekov in the newer ‘Star Trek’ movies and also previously appeared in ‘Alpha Dog’ and teen comedy ‘Charlie Bartlett’.
His ‘Star Trek’ co-star John Cho has paid tribute to him on Twitter.
He wrote: "I loved Anton Yelchin so much. He was a true artist – curious, beautiful, courageous. He was a great pal and a great son. I’m in ruins."
And filmmaker Kevin Smith described the news as "so damn sad".
He said: "Anton Yelchin just died in a car wreck. So damn sad. I met him and his Mom on a plane once. They were very sweet."
‘Glee’ star Kevin McHale was devastated by the tragedy.
He posted: "Anton Yelchin has always been one of my favorite actors. I’ve seen every movie. This is awful. Im so sorry for his family & friends.(sic)"
Anton Yelchin has died
