Kyle Loftis, founder of 1320Video, has died at the age of 34, according to representatives from the automotive media brand. For more than two decades, Loftis transformed underground street racing into one of YouTube's most watched automotive movements, building a loyal global audience that stretched far beyond the drag strip.
As tributes pour in from racers, creators and fans, many are revisiting the videos that helped make 1320Video a giant in the automotive world.
Kyle Loftis founded 1320Video in 2003 with a simple mission to showcase fast cars, wild builds and the raw energy of street racing. The channel quickly gained attention for its unfiltered coverage of drag races, roll racing events and heavily modified street cars.
Itscontentoften sparked controversy because of its connection to illegal street racing culture, but fans saw it differently. For many enthusiasts, 1320Video captured a side of car culture that traditional television ignored.
Loftis also became known for supporting other creators. Several major automotive personalities, includingCleetus McFarland, openly credited him for giving them early opportunities and exposure. Friends described him as someone who constantly promoted others while staying humble himself.
As fans mourn Loftis' death, many have returned to thevideos that built the channel into a worldwide success. These uploads became staples of internet car culture and introduced millions of viewers to the underground racing scene.
Representatives for 1320Video did not release details surrounding Loftis' death. Reports confirmed he had survived aserious crash while filming in Decemberand had reportedly been recovering.
The sudden news stunned the automotive industry. Friends, racers and creators flooded social media with emotional tributes, many describing Loftis as the reason they entered automotive media in the first place.
One longtime collaborator said Loftis had a unique ability to make everyone feel important. Others remembered how he constantly checked in on friends, promoted smaller creators and helped events grow without seeking recognition.
Several figures in drag racing also credited him for helping launch modern automotive content as fans know it today.
Source: International Business Times UK
