Star Trek's Anton Yelchin, 27, dead after accident on his driveway

Anton Yelchin, who starred in the Star Trek reboot franchise, died Sunday in Los Angeles after being struck by his own car on the steepdriveway of his home.

The Los Angeles Police Department told CBC News that Yelchinwas foundpinned against a brick mailbox pillar and a security fence.

"It appears he momentarily exited the car, leaving it in the driveway," said Jenny Houser, a public information officer with the LAPD. "He was behind the car at the time of the death."

Yelchin was on his way to a rehearsal when the accident happened. Friends found him after going to his Studio City home when he didn't show up after several hours.

Co-stars are shocked at the news.

Zachary Quinto, who playsSpock in the newStar Trek films,called Yelchin"one of the most open and intellectually curious people Ihave ever had the pleasure to know."

Others who knew him called the actor"such a talent" and a "sweetheart."

Yelchinplayed Chekov in the film Star Trek (2009) and Star Trek Into Darkness (2013). He will also appearin Star Trek Beyond, set to be released next month.

The Chekov in the first Star Trek series was played by Walter Koenig. Still acting, he is now 79.

Born in Russia, Yelchinbegan acting in the 1990s, appearing in several television and film roles. His credits also include the Steven Spielberg miniseries Takenand Only Lovers Left Alive.

WatchYelchin's2013interview with CBC aboutOnly Lovers Left Aliveand how he chooses his roles below.

Anton Yelchin talks to CBC about Only Lovers Left Alive in 2013

8 years ago

Duration 1:14

Yelchin, who died June 18 at the age of 27, starred in a variety of movies, including the blockbuster Star Trek and the independent film Only Lovers Left Alive