Paul Walker killed in California crash

The Los Angeles County Sheriff's department said that deputies found a car engulfed in flames when they responded to reports of a collision. The two people found in the car were pronounced dead at the scene.

A statement on the actor's Facebook page said: "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... are stunned and saddened beyond belief by this news.''

His fellow stars from the Fast and Furious films have also left messages on social media. Vin Diesel said: "Brother I will miss you very much. I am absolutely speechless. Heaven has gained a new Angel. Rest in Peace."

The rapper Ludacris wrote: "Your humble spirit was felt from the start, wherever you blessed your presence you always left a mark, we were like brothers."

Walker was a much-loved petrolhead, racing a Ford Mustang Boss in the Pirelli World Challenge. Every time TopGear.com met him over the years, we would spend hours talking about nothing but cars. We send all our thoughts and sympathies to his friends and family.