Paul Walker dead at 40: 'Fast and Furious' star killed in fiery car crash

Actor Paul Walker, best known for his role as Brian O'Conner in the popular "Fast & Furious" movies, died after a car accident in Southern California Saturday. He was 40 years old. 

A representative for the actor confirmed his death in an e-mail to Fox News Saturday evening. 

The Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department said that two people were killed in the accident, which took place at approximately 3:30 p.m. local time in Santa Clarita, Calif. A statement on the accidentfrom the department said that deputies found the car engulfed in flames when they arrived at the scene. 

Both victims were pronounced dead at the scene. The second victim has not been identified. 

A statement on the actor's official Facebook page said that Walker was a passenger in the car, and had been at a charity event for his organization, Reach Out Worldwide earlier in the day. 

"We appreciate your patience as we too are stunned and saddened beyond belief by this news," the statement read in part. "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."

Walker, a Southern California native, began acting at a young age when he appeared in commercials, and his television credits include appearances on "The Young and the Restless" and "Who's The Boss?" 

But it was his turns opposite Vin Diesel in "The Fast and the Furious" films that made Walker a movie star. Walker reprised his role as Brian O'Connor in four of the five sequels made of the 2001 hit. According to the Internet Movie Database, Walker was due to appear in "Fast & Furious 7," due out next year. He was also due to appear in the film "Hours," due out December 13.

Universal Pictures, the studio behind the "Fast & Furious" films, released the following statement Saturday evening: "All of us at Universal are heartbroken. 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."

Walker is survived by his daughter, Meadow.

FoxNews