Paul Walker, star of the hit action franchise "Fast & Furious," has died in a car crash in Southern California. He was 40 years old.

The sad news about the accident broke out on Paul Walker’s official Twitter account @RealPaulWalker Saturday night (Sunday morning, Manila time):

It's with a heavy heart that we must confirm Paul Walker passed away today in a tragic car accident…MORE: http://t.co/9hDuJMH99M – #TeamPW

— Paul Walker (@RealPaulWalker) December 1, 2013

According to Walker’s publicist, the actor was attending a charity event for his organization Reach Out Worldwide to boost the fund-raising campaign for super typhoon Hainan/Yolanda victims in the Philippines. He was a passenger in a friend’s car when the tragic accident happened.

It was around 3:30 p.m. when the sports car that Walker and his friend, identified as Roger Rodas, are riding was seen crashing off the road and slammed into a tree in Santa Clarita. It suddenly bursted into flames.

“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,” the statement says.