According to TMZ, the Russian-born star died in a “freak accident” after he was pinned down between his 2.5 ton Jeep Grand Cherokee and a brick mailbox at his home in California.
He was found by worried friends at approximately 1am after they visited his home in San Fernando Valley when he failed to attend a planned rehearsal.
Yelchin rose to fame in 2006 film Alpha Dog before securing the role of Kyle Reese in Terminator Salvation, and Chekov in 2009’s Star Trek and 2013’s Star Trek Into Darkness
Star Trek’s official website and Twitter account has paid tribute to the late actor: “StarTrek.com is deeply saddened to report that Anton Yelchin, Star Trek’s current Chekov, died today, June 19, at the age of 27.
“The actor was killed, in a freak accident, at home in Los Angeles by his own car.
“Yelchin played Chekov in Star Trek, Star Trek Into Darkness and will be seen next month in Star Trek Beyond.”
The tribute continued: “Please join StarTrek.com in offering our condolences to Yelchin’s family, friends, colleagues and fans.”
Fellow celebrities have begun paying tribute to the actor on social media.
Star Trek co-star John Cho tweeted: “I loved Anton Yelchin so much.
“He was a true artist – curious, beautiful, courageous.
“He was a great pal and a great son. I’m in ruins.”
Anton’s family right now. They need it.”
Actor and co-star Zachary Quinto shared a tribute to his friend on Twitter: “one of the most open and intellectually curious people…”