The actor Anton Yelchin, who was best known for playing Chekov in the most recent run of Star Trek movies, has died at 27 after he was involved in a freak car accident, it was confirmed on 19 June.

Friends of the star became concerned when he failed to attend a rehearsal. They found him at his San Fernando Valley home around 1am, local time, on Sunday (19 June), pinned between his car and a brick letter box.

The engine was reportedly still running when his body was found, whilst the car was in neutral mode, TMZ reports.

A statement from his rep said: Actor Anton Yelchin was killed in a fatal traffic collision early this morning. His family requests you respect their privacy at this time.

In addition to his role in the Star Trek movies, he was known for roles in diverse movies such as Terminator Salvation and Like Crazy. Fans and friends of the star have been paying their tributes on social media.