The SUV involved in the death of Star Trek actor Anton Yelchin appears to be in the process of recall after several complaints.
ICYMI: The Star Trek family responds to Anton Yelchins passing
After some investigation into the tragedy, it appears that the SUV involved was in the process of being withdrawn as the gear shifter had been known to confuse drivers and cause the vehicle to suddenly roll away. Yelchin died on Sunday after his 2015 Jeep Grand Cherokee rolled away and pinned him against his fence at his home in Los Angeles, as revealed by the LA police.
Records from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration show the 2015 model-year Grand Cherokee is part of a 1.1m global recall announced by Fiat Chrysler in April. The recall was urged because of complaints from drivers who said that they were not quite sure if they had left automatic transmissions in park mode. If the vehicle was not left in the park mode, the vehicle could easily roll away once the driver had exited.
On Monday, Fiat Chrysler announced in a statement that they would assist in any investigations but that it was too early to speculate on any possible causes of the incident. They offered their deepest sympathies to the family and friends of the actor. It might be too soon to speculate on exactly what happened, but it seems only logical to assume the accident was similar to the many complaints that had led to the recall, meaning that Fiat Chrysler must take some reposibility in the accident, should the tests determine this is the cause.
Officer Jane Kim announced that the investigation was centering on where the gear stick was at the time of the incident, but they have not yet revealed the answers, or any reason that Yelchin was behind the vehicle when it started rolling. The official reports states that the death was an accident, although results of the autopsy and the toxicology tests will not be known for some time.
What is known is that the promising career of a young actor has been cut tragically short by an awful accident. It was an enormous shock to wake up to the news of Anton’s death and he will be deeply missed by all who knew and watched him. Tributes from those who knew him best, both inside and outside of the Star Trek universe, have continued to be released.
"“brilliant … kind … funny as hell, and supremely talented”.Director JJ Abrams“What a rare and beautiful soul with his unstoppable passion for life. He was equal parts serious thinker and the most fun little brother you could ever dream of.”Actress Jodie Foster“He was a ferocious movie buff who put us all to shame. He was watching four or five movies every night.”Director Gabe Klinger"
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