Star Trek actor Anton Yelchin dies in car accident aged 27

The actor Anton Yelchin, who was best known for playing Chekov in the most recent run of Star Trek movies, has died at 27 after he was involved in a freak car accident, it was confirmed on 19 June.

Friends of the star became concerned when he failed to attend a rehearsal. They found him at his San Fernando Valley home around 1am, local time, on Sunday (19 June), pinned between his car and a brick letter box.

The engine was reportedly still running when his body was found, whilst the car was in neutral mode, TMZ reports.

A statement from his rep said: "Actor Anton Yelchin was killed in a fatal traffic collision early this morning. His family requests you respect their privacy at this time."

In addition to his role in the Star Trek movies, he was known for roles in diverse movies such as Terminator Salvation and Like Crazy. Fans and friends of the star have been paying their tributes on social media.

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.
— John Cho (@JohnTheCho) June 19, 2016

Dammit.. 2016 takes another one. Anton Yelchin was such a good talent and way too young.
— Dan (@MigMonkey77) June 19, 2016

RIP Anton Yelchin. An extremely talented actor and someone who brought light to the films he was in. So sad.
— Terri Schwartz (@Terri_Schwartz) June 19, 2016

So very sad about Anton Yelchin. RIP.
— Tony Gill (@TonyGill9) June 19, 2016

Cant believe it. RIP Anton Yelchin. Always admired his work.
— Thomas Mann (@thomas_mann) June 19, 2016

Anton Yelchin was a genius with a perfect career. This is so devastating and a major loss for humankind.
— Patrik Sandberg (@PatrikSandberg) June 19, 2016

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