Gone too fast: Paul Walker dies in fiery car crash

Paul Walker, star of The Fast and the Furious movies, died yesterday in a car crash in Southern California. He was 40.

Tragicu00a0end: The 40-year-old Hollywood star played the lead role in the Fast and Furious movies. Pic/AFP

Walker was in Santa Clarita for a charity event to benefit his organisation Reach Out Worldwide when the fatal accident occurred.

The out-of-control car struck a light pole and a tree in a business park in Valencia, bursting into flames.

"Sadly, I must confirm that Paul did pass away this afternoon," his rep, Ame Van Iden, said.

Walker, a resident of Santa Barbara, California, and the father of a 15-year-old girl, rose to fame as Brian O'Conner in the popular movie franchise about illegal street racing and daring heists.

"Brother I will miss you very much. I am absolutely speechless," co-star Vin Diesel wrote on Instagram. "Heaven has gained a new Angel. Rest in Peace." Diesel also tweeted: "My brother and I…..we aimed for the stars together….and achieved more than we ever hoped we could with f&f." u00a0