Ubisoft co-founder Claude Guillemot died on June 19 in a plane crash in La Baule, western France, along with a flight instructor. He was 69. Guillemot co-founded Ubisoft with his four brothers in 1986 and served on the company's board of directors. He also chaired Guillemot Corporation, which manufactures gaming accessories and owns the Thrustmaster brand, and held a master's degree in economic science from Rennes 1 University. The crash occurred just before 6 p.m. local time in a twin-engine Cessna 421 propeller aircraft. Both occupants were licensed pilots with extensive flight experience, according to the Associated Press. Mayor Franck Louvrier said witnesses reported that the plane banked before it crashed. Ubisoft issued a statement expressing its condolences and offering support to his family. CEO Yves Guillemot said the company had received many messages from employees, players, partners and industry figures, and thanked them for their support during this time. He noted that Claude Guillemot helped establish Ubisoft as a major video game publisher and contributed to its development through entrepreneurial leadership. The cause of the crash is under investigation, and no further details have been released. The company said it will continue its operations while honoring his legacy.