Ubisoft co-founder Claude Guillemot died in plane crash on June 19 in an accident that also left another person dead. Guillemot was 69.
Ubisoft said in a statement (via The New York Times) that it was “deeply saddened to learn of the death of Claude Guillemot, co-founder of the group and chairman of Guillemot Corp., in an accident.” The statement added: “Our thoughts are with his family and loved ones during this difficult time.”
A report from French news broadcaster ICI said the crash happened just before 6 PM local time in La Baule, in western France.
Guillemot and one other person in the twin-engine Cessna 421 propeller plane were killed in the crash, the report said. A report from the Associated Press said the other person was a flight instructor. Both were licensed and experienced pilots, the report said.
The mayor of La Baule, Franck Louvrier, said witness reports indicated that the plane “banked and crashed” upon approach to the city’s airport.
Claude Guillemot co-founded Ubisoft in 1986 together with his four brothers, including current CEO Yves Guillemot. Yves’ son, Charlie Guillemot, was recently promoted to a top position at the company.
Claude Guillemot was on Ubisoft’s board of directors. He was the CEO of Guillemot Corporation, a French company that makes gaming accessories and also owns the Thrustmaster brand. He earned a Master’s degree in economic science from Rennes 1 University in France.
