Anton Yelchin has died

19 June 2016

Anton Yelchin has died at the age of 27.

Anton Yelchin

The 'Star Trek' actor reportedly lost his life after he was trapped by his own car in a freak accident in Los Angeles in the early hours of Sunday (19.06.16) morning.

According to TMZ, Anton's friend had got worried when the actor failed to show up to a meeting, so he went to his house in San Fernando Valley and found him "pinned between his car and a brick mailbox, which was attached to a security gate."

The engine was still running and the car was in neutral.

A spokesperson for the actor has confirmed his sad passing, but did not verify his cause of death.

They said only: "Actor Anton Yelchin was killed in a fatal traffic collision early this morning.

"His family requests you respect their privacy at this time."

Police are currently investigating his death but don't suspect foul play.

Russian-born Anton was best known for playing Chekov in the newer 'Star Trek' movies and also previously appeared in 'Alpha Dog' and teen comedy 'Charlie Bartlett'.

His 'Star Trek' co-star John Cho has paid tribute to him on Twitter.

He wrote: "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."

And filmmaker Kevin Smith described the news as "so damn sad".

He said: "Anton Yelchin just died in a car wreck. So damn sad. I met him and his Mom on a plane once. They were very sweet."

'Glee' star Kevin McHale was devastated by the tragedy.

He posted: "Anton Yelchin has always been one of my favorite actors. I've seen every movie. This is awful. Im so sorry for his family & friends.(sic)"