Iranian fighter jet crashes, claiming the lives of two pilots

In Florida, Steve Mensch, the president of Tyler Perry Studios, died when the small plane he was piloting crashed on December 6, 2024. The tragic incident occurred north of Tampa, with reports confirming the plane crashed in Homosassa. The single-engine Vans RV-12IS was registered to Mensch's home in Fayetteville, Georgia. Both the Federal Aviation Administration and the National Transportation Safety Board are actively investigating the circumstances that led to the crash. Mensch, age 62, was renowned for his pivotal role in the film and television industry within Georgia. He had been instrumental in advocating for the film tax credit, which has significantly boosted the state’s economy and helped secure Georgia's reputation as an emerging production hub. His passion for aviation was well-known, and it is heart-wrenching for his colleagues and peers to come to terms with this sudden loss. Tyler Perry expressed his sorrow over the accident, noting how much Mensch loved flying and his plane. Having joined Tyler Perry Studios in 2016, Mensch played a crucial role in establishing and growing the studio, which spans 330 acres and has become a significant player in the industry. Prior to his work at the studio, Mensch was involved in various capacities within the film community, including efforts leading up to the 1996 Atlanta Olympics. His vision and commitment helped Georgia emerge as a competitive location for film and television productions, which have brought in substantial revenue to the state. As tributes pour in from colleagues and industry peers, the community remembers Steve Mensch not just for his professional achievements but also for his kindness and leadership. He is survived by his wife, Danila, and three children. The impact of his loss will undoubtedly resonate throughout the Atlanta film community and beyond, as they mourn a beloved figure whose contributions extended far beyond the studio walls.