Homosassa, FL - A top executive at Tyler Perry Studios died in a plane crash Friday evening while piloting a small aircraft in Florida.
The accident occurred in Homosassa, located about 60 miles north of Tampa, as confirmed by local authorities.
The executive, identified as 62-year-old Steve Mensch, was flying a single-engine Vans RV-12IS aircraft when the plane crashed near an intersection.
Emergency responders found the aircraft upside down on the roadway. Mensch was the sole occupant of the plane and was pronounced dead at the scene.
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) are investigating the cause of the crash.
Preliminary reports have not identified any immediate issues, and further details will be released as the investigation progresses.
Steve Mensch joined Tyler Perry Studios in 2016, where he served as president and general manager.
Under his leadership, the Atlanta-based studio became a major hub for film and television production.
Mensch was instrumental in the development of the studio's massive 330-acre campus and was a strong advocate for Georgia's film tax credits, which have made the state a competitive market in the entertainment industry.
Prior to his work at Tyler Perry Studios, Mensch held leadership roles in prominent companies such as Turner Broadcasting and Feature Systems.
He was widely respected in the industry for his expertise and commitment to advancing the business of film production.
Tyler Perry Studios issued a statement expressing their grief: "Steve Mensch was more than a colleague; he was a visionary leader and a cherished member of our team. His contributions to the studio and the broader film industry were immeasurable. He will be deeply missed."
Mensch is survived by his family and colleagues, who remember him as a dedicated professional and an inspiring leader.
The investigation into the crash continues, with the FAA and NTSB working to determine what led to the fatal incident.