According to a post on The Hoonigans The Instagram account of rally racer and businessman Ken Block has died in a snowmobile accident. Block is 55 years old.
In a brief announcement, the Hoonigans team simply stated that the block “died in a snowmobile accident”, with a request to respect the family’s privacy in what will no doubt be a difficult time.
A truly peerless talent, Block was an athlete who competed on snowboards, snowboards, and motorcycles, as well as behind the wheel of all manner of rally cars. Lots Motor1.com readers are sure to discover Block through his single Gymkhana video, which dates back to 2008.
But Block is perhaps more gifted as a businessman and entrepreneur. Together with Damon Way (a college friend), Block co-founded the company that would become the skate brand DC Shoes in the early 1990s. The brand would thrive over the next decade, entering the zeitgeist just as skating culture was gaining popularity, and helping propel Block to greater fame and opportunity.
Over the last decade, Block has had a similar success story with his Hoonigan brand, which combines wild stunt videos, savvy marketing and a love of racing into a merchandising and marketing force.
Block is survived by his wife, Lucy, and their three children.
We’ll update this developing story as more information becomes available.
