Los Angeles: Paul Walker, who shot to fame with street racing franchise 'Fast & Furious', has died in a fiery car crash in Southern California, police said today. The 40-year-old actor was accompanied by his friend and was coming back from his organization's charity event last night in a friend's 2005 Porsche Carrera GT. His friend also lost his life in the car crash, authorities 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 organization Reach Out Worldwide," a statement on Walker's Facebook page read. "He was a passenger in a friend's car, in which both lost their lives. 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 added.

When the cops arrived at the spot they found the car engulfed in flames. "The Los Angeles County Fire Department responded, extinguished the fire and subsequently located two victims inside the vehicle. The victims were pronounced dead at the scene," people magazine quoted the police as saying. The actor, who is best known for playing Brian O'Conner in the 'Fast & Furious' film series, has also done films like 'Into the Blue', 'She's All That' 'Eight Below' and 'Takers' among others. The actor is survived by daughter Meadow.