Claude Guillemot, co-founder of French video game company Ubisoft, has died at the age of 69.
According to French media (via bloomberg), Guillemot died in a plane crash in the French resort town of La Baule. He was one of two people on board the plane, both of whom died.
Guillemot founded Ubisoft in 1986 with his four brothers. Since then, the company has published titles in the Assassin’s Creed, Far Cry, Prince of Persia, and Tom Clancy video game franchises, as well as many other titles. The family retains control of Ubisoft, and Guillemot’s brother Yves is still CEO.
Guillemot was also president of Guillemot Corp., a manufacturer of gaming and audio accessories.
“Ubisoft is deeply saddened to learn of the death in an accident of Claude Guillemot, group co-founder and Chairman of Guillemot Corp.,” Ubisoft said in a statement. “Our thoughts are with his family and loved ones at this difficult time. No further statement will be made at this time.”
