George Pimentel/WireImageStar Trek actor Anton Yelchin died after a tragic car accident on Sunday.
The 27-year-old star was standing behind his car that was parked in his driveway when the vehicle rolled backwards and pinned him against a brick mailbox and a security fence, a police spokesperson told E! News. He had been on his way to meet friends for a rehearsal and when he didn't show up, they went to his house and found his body.
On Monday, the L.A. county coroner confirmed to E! News that Yelchin's death was ruled an accident by blunt traumatic asphyxia from the force of the car against his body.
Meanwhile, we've also learned that the 2015 Jeep Grand Cherokee that killed Yelchin could have been part of a recall for a gear shifting problem. According to a notice that went out in May, "Drivers may inadvertently fail to achieve the park position before exiting." Essentially, the car may appear to be in park when it is actually in neutral.
However, it is still not clear if the accident was the result of mechanical issues or the fault of whoever was the last person to park the vehicle at Yelchin's Studio City California home. Thus, the investigation is being handled by LAPD's Valley Traffic Division.
The FCA issued a statement to Yelchin's family, saying, "FCA US extends its most sincere condolences to the family and friends of Mr. Yelchin. The Company is in contact with the authorities and is conducting a thorough investigation. It is premature to speculate on the cause of this tragedy."
According to the initial report taken at the scene, the vehicle was in neutral before it rolled down the incline and struck the actor.