The man killed in a recent police chase in Santa Ana, CA is confirmed as Andrew Scott Reisse, a co-founder of Oculus VR, according to Santa Ana’s local ABC affiliate. Reisse was crossing the street when a Dodge Charger being pursued by police ran a red light, striking and killing him. Reisse was 33.
“We have some completely unexpected, tragic news to share,” Oculus VR said in a statement. “On Thursday, we lost a very dear friend and founding member of our close-knit Oculus family, Andrew Reisse.”
“Andrew was a brilliant computer graphics engineer, an avid photographer and hiker who loved nature, and a loyal friend. Andrew was unique in so many interesting ways. He was extraordinarily kind and utterly selfless. He was a mentor and an inspiration to everyone around him.”
The chase that took Reisse’s life began when police saw two vehicles involved in what they described as “criminal activity.” This led to a confrontation that left one suspect dead, and another – 21-year old Victor Sanchez – fleeing the scene in a Dodge Charger.
Sanchez ran several red lights, crashing into two cars, before striking and killing Reisse. Sanchez is now in custody and recovering from injuries sustained during the crash.
Reisse studied Computer Science at the University of Maryland College Park where he shared a dorm room with Michael Antonov, who would eventually go on to become Oculus VR’s chief software architect. After helping to found Oculus VR, Reisse took the position of Lead Engineer and oversaw the Oculus Rift Software Development Kit. He also worked to ensure Unreal Engine integration, develop Hawken VR, and helped to create several demos to highlight the technology.
“Andrew was taken from us long before his time. Words cannot express how sorely he will be missed or how deeply our sympathy runs for his family,” The statement read.
“Andrew, you will always be in our thoughts and never forgotten. We love you, Reisse.”
Digital Trends extends sympathies to Reisse’s friends and family during this difficult time.
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