Vicksburg businessman and veteran aviator Dan Fordice, known across the region for flying painstakingly restored World War II aircraft, died Tuesday when his single-engine plane crashed near the Vicksburg-Tallulah Regional Airport in Madison Parish, Louisiana. Authorities said the crash happened in the afternoon, that Fordice was the only person aboard, and that the cause is still under investigation as federal teams move in to examine the wreckage.
Crash Near Vicksburg-Tallulah Regional Airport
Local outlets reported that the crash occurred around 3 p.m., with Madison Parish deputies confirming a fatality, according to WLBT. Flight-tracking data reviewed by the station indicated roughly three minutes of apparent flight less than a mile from the airport. The aircraft was reported to be a restored P-51 Mustang known as Charlotte's Chariot II.
WLBT also noted that the NTSB posted on social media identifying the airplane as a North American F-51D, and that investigators planned to document the site and then move the wreckage for a closer technical review.
Investigators Head To The Scene
Regional coverage confirmed the initial reports and filled in some early investigative detail. WAPT reported that Fordice was the only person aboard and that the cause of the crash remained under investigation. Officials said federal teams would collect radar data, maintenance records, witness statements, and any available recordings as part of the inquiry.
According to standard procedure described by investigators, a preliminary NTSB report typically appears within about 30 days. A full final report, which can detail causes and contributing factors, usually takes many months to complete.
Veteran, Philanthropist And Warbird Pilot
Beyond his business interests in Vicksburg, Fordice was a retired Army officer and a prominent figure in the historic aviation community. The National World War II Museum honored him with its American Spirit Medallion in 2021, citing his work supporting veterans and his commitment to keeping World War II aircraft flying, according to National WWII Museum records.
The Commemorative Air Force Mississippi Wing credited him with donating and loaning aircraft for events, describing a pattern of sharing his passion for aviation with the public. In Vicksburg, Fordice was listed as director emeritus of the family construction firm, according to Fordice Construction.
Community Reaction
News of the crash prompted a swift and emotional response from state leaders and veterans' groups. “We are devastated by the loss of Dan Fordice, husband, father, and businessman...,” Lt. Gov. Delbert Hosemann said, while State Auditor Shad White wrote that he was “saddened by the loss of my friend,” as reported by WLBT.
The Commemorative Air Force remembered Fordice as “always eager to share his passion for aviation,” a sentiment that echoed his long record of public outreach and veterans advocacy. Funeral arrangements had not been announced.
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