James Horner is reportedly missing and feared dead, as a plane registered to the Oscar-winning composer crashed near Santa Barbara, Calif. earlier Monday (June 22), killing its pilot.
At press time, the identity of the pilot, who was traveling alone, had yet to be confirmed by medical/fire/police officials or family members. The wreckage caused a brush fire in an impacted area in Ventucopa, Calif., which may have complicated the identification process.
Horner, 61, is an “experienced pilot,” said his lawyer Jay Cooper to NBC News. The plane that crashed was a single-engine military craft.
“We know it's his plane, and we know we haven't heard from him,” Cooper also told The Hollywood Reporter. “He owned five aircrafts… He loved flying. That's all I can say.”
Sylvia Patrycja, who is identified as a personal assistant to Horner, posted words of mourning on a Facebook page. “We have lost an amazing person with a huge heart and unbelievable talent,” Patrycja about four hours after the crash. “He died doing what he loved. Thank you for all your support and love and see you down the road.”
Director Ron Howard, one of Horner's frequent collaborators, also implied the “Braveheart,” “Titanic” and “Field of Dreams” scorer had died.
Brilliant Composer James Horner, friend & collaborator on 7 movies has tragically died in a plane crash. My heart aches for his loved ones.
– Ron Howard (@RealRonHoward) June 23, 2015