Mississippi business owner Johnny Morgan passed away in a Wednesday afternoon plane crash, sources tell SuperTalk Mississippi News.
According to the Federal Aviation Administration, a plane that departed Oxford University Airport crashed in Washington County, Ark. near Fayetteville.
The pilot of the plane, Morgan White Group owner Johnny Morgan, 76, reported that he heard a puttering sound, then lost radio contact shortly after 12:30 p.m.
After more than three hours of search efforts, rescue crews were able to locate the plane and discovered the pilot, Morgan, deceased at the scene. He was the only person on the plane.
From the FAA (2/2): The FAA alerted local public safety agencies about the missing aircraft on Wednesday, May 17 at 1:05 p.m. local time.
— Chelsea Helms (@ChelseaHelms1) May 17, 2023
Morgan, who served as a state senator from 1983 to 1991, was known for his passion for Ole Miss and Mississippi politics. The politician and business owner became popular for his “Good Ole Boys and Gals” event held at Morgan’s tractor shed off Highway 7 in Oxford.
The event would host politicians from all parties, candidates seeking office, and other Mississippians who shared a mutual interest in the state’s affairs.
Governor Tate Reeves pinned Morgan as arguably the “most fiercely loyal person” he had ever met.
Johnny Morgan was perhaps the most fiercely loyal person I ever met.
“If he was with you…..
He was WITH you!”He loved Ole Miss, MS politics, – and life!
Elee and I are devastated! pic.twitter.com/9yPtaSZ0x0
— Governor Tate Reeves (@tatereeves) May 18, 2023