Paul Walker has died in a car crash on Saturday. The “Fast and Furious” star was reportedly killed in Santa Clarita outside of Los Angeles when his vehicle lost control and crashed into a tree. He was 40 years old.

As TMZ first reported, the U.S. actor’s Porsche GT somehow lost control and slammed into a tree or a post. The vehicle then burst into flames, killing him and another person in the car.

It is not clear what caused the accident or who was driving when it happened.

Authorities are still investigating.

His manner of death appears to be cruel, ironic twist of fate. The actor was the star of the highly successful “Fast and Furious” franchise, which is best known for its death-defying car stunts. He was filming the seventh instalment of the film series with co-stars Vin Diesel, Michelle Rodriguez, Jordana Brewster, and Dwayne Johnson among many others.

Walker was said to be in Santa Clarita to attend a car show in support of a relief effort campaign for the super typhoon Haiyan victims in the Philippines. TMZ sources said that he had been taking his friends out for rides in his new luxury car, and the accident happened during one of those test spins.

UPDATE:
A message on the actor’s official Facebook page confirms his death. It reads:

“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 organisation 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.”

Walker began his career with roles in television shows like “Who’s the Boss?”, “The Young and the Restless,” and “Touched by an Angel.” He also had supporting roles in several films, such as “Pleasantville” and “Varsity Blues.”

His breakthrough role came in 2001 when he nabbed the role of Brian O’Connor in “The Fast and the Furious,” in which he played an undercover cop who infiltrated a local street racing scene. The film was a box office success, leading to the beginning of a multi-billion dollar film franchise and making Walker a notable Hollywood star.

“Fast & Furious 7” is scheduled for release in 2014.

Walker’s next film, “Hours,” is slated for release this December in the U.S.

He is survived by a daughter named Meadow.