Child actor Hudson Meek, best known for his portrayal of a young Ansel Elgort in the 2017 action film Baby Driver, died after falling out of a moving vehicle on Dec. 21. He was just 16.
Alabama NBC affiliate WTVM 13 News reported that the incident occurred in Vestavia Hills, AL, where Meek attended high school, around 10:45 p.m. last Thursday, Dec. 19. Meek was taken to the hospital where he died two days later of blunt force injuries. The circumstances leading to his death are being investigated by local authorities.
The teen's mother, Lani Wells Meek, confirmed the news of his passing in a Facebook post on Saturday.
"Our hearts are broken to share that Hudson Meek went home to be with Jesus tonight," she wrote. "His 16 years on this earth were far too short, but he accomplished so much and significantly impacted everyone he met."
An online obituary described Meek as having a "one-of-a-kind" personality who was quick-witted, spontaneous, and convicted in his beliefs.
"He never let the facts get in the way of a funny story, and he loved friendly banter," the online listing read. "He was a prankster, loved a good joke, and was happiest when he was making others laugh. Hudson thrived in settings that allowed him to meet and serve new people. Hudson was a vibrant and dynamic person who lived life to the fullest."
In addition to Baby Driver, Meek appeared in episodes of the 2016 MacGyver reboot, and movies including the Lifetime holiday film The Santa Con, The School Duel, and 90 Minutes in Heaven. When not acting, Meek played on his high school football team and was active in his church, often attending youth retreats and mission trips.
He was also an organ donor, and the obit states that his family is "comforted by knowing that he will continue to help others for years to come."
