Hudson Meek, the teenage actor known for his role in “Baby Driver” and many television series, died following a tragic accident in suburban Birmingham. He was 16.

According to the Jefferson County Coroner’s office, Meek sustained fatal injuries after falling from a moving vehicle in Vestavia Hills on December 19. He was rushed to the University of Alabama at Birmingham Hospital, where he died two days later.

The Vestavia Hills Police Department is investigating the incident’s circumstances, though details remain limited.

Meek began his acting career with minor roles before landing his breakthrough part as the younger version of Ansel Elgort’s character in Edgar Wright’s critically acclaimed 2017 film “Baby Driver.” The success of the film helped launch a promising career that included roles in television series such as “MacGyver,” “Legacies,” and most recently, NBC’s “Found.”

His voice work extended to children’s programming, where he notably led “Badanamu Stories” and “Badanamu Cadets” as the character Bada.

Beyond his screen work, Meek completed several unreleased projects set to debut in 2025, according to his representatives. His final performances will be seen in the upcoming television series “Genius” and the film “The School Duel.”

A sophomore at Vestavia Hills High School, Meek was remembered by those who knew him as more than just a rising talent in Hollywood. His obituary described a multifaceted teenager who was “reflective and thoughtful” while maintaining a quick wit and love for adventure. An accomplished athlete, he was a member of his school’s football team and became a certified open-water scuba diver at age 13.

“He absolutely loved spending time on set and having the chance to learn the names and stories of every member of the cast and crew,” his obituary noted, highlighting his dedication to the craft and genuine interest in those around him.

Known for his adventurous spirit, Meek was an avid outdoorsman who excelled at snow skiing, often tackling challenging trails that his family members wouldn’t attempt. He particularly loved water sports, swimming at the lake, and wakeboarding. His diverse interests extended to pop culture, with a particular passion for “The Simpsons,” having watched all 36 seasons.

David Doan, one of Meek’s representatives, praised him as “a wonderfully gifted and amazing young man” and “a bright light in this industry.” Similar sentiments were echoed across social media, where an Instagram post announced his passing, noting that “his 16 years on this earth were far too short, but he accomplished so much and significantly impacted everyone he met.”

“He was equally a kind, empathetic, thoughtful young man who loved his family and his friends fiercely,” added another representative, highlighting the personal qualities that endeared him to those who knew him both on and off set.

Meek’s legacy will continue through a scholarship established in his memory at Vestavia Hills High School, to be awarded annually to a student. The establishment of this scholarship reflects his lasting impact on his community and his commitment to education alongside his artistic pursuits.

He is survived by his parents, Derek Firth Meek and Lani Wells Meek, his older brother Tucker Firth Meek, and his grandmothers, Margaret Green Meek and Faye Searcy Wells. A celebration of life service is scheduled for December 28 at Dawson Memorial Baptist Church in Homewood, Alabama, with plans to livestream the ceremony on Meek’s Instagram account and his mother’s Facebook page for those unable to attend in person.

The young actor’s passing marks a profound loss for his immediate community and the entertainment industry, where his potential began to be realized. His work, particularly in “Baby Driver” and subsequent productions, is a testament to his talent and impact in his brief but meaningful career.