Claude Guillemot, one of the co-founders of Ubisoft, died on Saturday in a plane crash in France. The accident occurred just before the twin-motor Cessna 421 aircraft was set to land at La Baule-Escoublac Airport along the Atlantic coast. A flight instructor was also killed in the crash, according to reports.
Ubisoft released a statement expressing deep sadness over the loss. "Our thoughts are with his family and loved ones during this difficult time," a spokesperson told various outlets.
The five Guillemot brothers established Ubisoft in 1986. While Claude Guillemot's focus shifted to his role as president and CEO of Guillemot Corporation, a hardware manufacturing company, his brother Yves has served as Ubisoft's chairman and CEO since 1988.
Recent years have seen Ubisoft navigate challenges including layoffs and studio closures, with further significant game cancellations occurring in January. Last year, the company established Vantage Studios, a new subsidiary tasked with managing its major intellectual properties such as Assassin's Creed, Far Cry, and Rainbow Six. Vantage Studios is co-led by Christophe Derennes and Charlie Guillemot, who is Yves Guillemot's son and Claude's nephew.
Game Informer extends its condolences to the Guillemot family following this tragic event.