WSOP Winner Dies In Car Accident

Californian poker pro Ryan Young was a much respected member of the poker community with a promising career ahead of him, but the 28 year old has now tragically had his life cut short after being involved in an automobile accident.
Ryan Young had won $1,676,043 from tournaments since his first cash in 2005, and in 2007 captured a WSOP bracelet in the $1,500 NL event for $615,955. Known as an affable, sympathetic character, following his victory Young commented:
“I feel bad for a lot of these really good players who make final tables but haven’t won a bracelet. I realize now how much it means. It means a lot.”
Only recently, Ryan Young had been in action at the 2012 WSOP and even made a good run in the Main Event, finishing in 350th place for $32,871. During the tournament, Daniel Negreanu recalls chatting to the much loved pro, and was the first person to break the painful news via his Twitter account, writing:
“Really sad news: Poker Pro Ryan Young passed away today. Kid was a character, played with him in the main event this year. RIP Ryan..A real loss for the poker world.”
Since the announcement was made there has been an outpouring of grief from the poker community, sharing their memories of Ryan Young and expressing their sadness of his passing. Vanessa Selbst commented:
“I’m also incredibly sad about Ryan Young’s passing. He was a treat to play with—such a vibrant, good-natured kid. Too young for that. RIP.”
Other players have reacted with shock at the news, with good friend Amit Makhija writing: “So incredibly torn up about Ryan Young’s car accident. Was in disbelief when I read the news this morning was praying it was a bad joke. I was quite close to him for many years, and its really so sad, he was definitely an amazing friend, and a great person. My heart and prayers go out to his family.”
OnlinePoker.net would like to offer our  deepest condolences to his friends and family at this difficult time.