Michael Hyrum Cox and Mark Andrew Johnson, Killed in Tragic Small Plane Crash into Utah Lake: Investigators Examine Cause as Families and Communities Mourn the Loss of Two Aviators
Utah Lake, Utah County — On the morning of Friday, September 27, 2024, a small aircraft carrying two Utah men tragically crashed into Utah Lake, claiming the lives of both onboard. Michael Hyrum Cox, 44, of St. George, and Mark Andrew Johnson, 46, of Washington, Utah, were the sole occupants of the private plane, which went down shortly after takeoff. Despite efforts from emergency responders, neither man survived the crash. The incident has left their families and communities grappling with the devastating loss of two beloved individuals.
As the investigation into the crash continues, authorities, including the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) and the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), are working to determine the exact cause of the accident. Early indications suggest the crash may have been the result of mechanical failure, though this is yet to be confirmed. The crash site, located in Utah Lake near Saratoga Springs, is now the focus of extensive recovery and investigation efforts as authorities search for clues to explain the tragedy.
In this in-depth report, we explore the details of the crash, provide insight into the lives of the victims, and examine the current state of the investigation. We will also delve into the aviation history of Utah, the rise in small aircraft accidents, and the emotional toll this tragedy has taken on the victims’ families and communities.
The Morning of the Crash: A Routine Flight Turns Tragic
On Friday morning, Michael Hyrum Cox and Mark Andrew Johnson set off from a small regional airport near Provo for what was supposed to be a routine flight in a light single-engine aircraft. Both men were experienced aviation enthusiasts, with Cox holding a private pilot’s license and Johnson a frequent co-pilot on recreational flights. The two had flown together before, embarking on similar flights across the Utah region to enjoy the stunning landscapes and open skies.
The flight that ended in tragedy began like many others: clear skies and calm winds greeted them as they prepared for takeoff. Witnesses at the Provo Municipal Airport recall seeing the small plane, a Piper PA-32, taxiing and then ascending into the air smoothly. However, just minutes after takeoff, something went horribly wrong.
At approximately 10:15 AM, a distress call was made from the aircraft, indicating a possible engine malfunction. The radio transmission was cut off abruptly, and moments later, eyewitnesses reported seeing the plane descending rapidly toward Utah Lake. Boaters and nearby residents observed the aircraft hitting the water, causing a violent splash before disappearing beneath the surface.
Emergency services, including the Utah County Sheriff’s Office, local fire and rescue teams, and dive units, were dispatched immediately to the crash site. Despite their rapid response, efforts to rescue Cox and Johnson proved futile. The wreckage of the aircraft was submerged in the lake, and both men were found deceased inside the cockpit by recovery divers later that afternoon.
The Victims: Remembering Michael Hyrum Cox and Mark Andrew Johnson
The untimely deaths of Michael Hyrum Cox and Mark Andrew Johnson have sent waves of grief throughout their respective communities of St. George and Washington, Utah. Both men were highly respected and deeply involved in their local areas, known for their passion for flying and commitment to their families.
Michael Hyrum Cox
Michael Cox, 44, was a lifelong aviation enthusiast. Born and raised in St. George, Cox’s fascination with flight began at an early age when he frequently visited local air shows with his father. After earning his private pilot’s license in his early 30s, he became a fixture at the regional airport, flying as often as his schedule allowed. Outside of aviation, Cox was a successful small business owner, operating a landscaping company that serviced much of the St. George area.
Cox was also a devoted husband and father of three children. His wife, Jennifer Cox, described him as “the rock of our family” in a tearful statement given to the press following the crash.
“Michael lived life to the fullest and loved with his whole heart. He was always there for his kids, whether it was coaching their soccer teams or teaching them how to ride bikes. He loved flying, and while I always worried when he was in the air, I knew it was what made him happy. We are heartbroken, but we take comfort in knowing that he was doing something he loved in his final moments.”
Friends and family members gathered at Cox’s home on Friday evening to support the grieving family. His neighbor and close friend, Derek Thompson, recalled Cox’s kindness and generosity, often offering his services free of charge to help beautify parks and public spaces in the community.
Mark Andrew Johnson
Mark Johnson, 46, of Washington, Utah, was also passionate about aviation, though he was not a licensed pilot. Johnson, a close friend of Cox, frequently accompanied him on flights, serving as an unofficial co-pilot and sharing in Cox’s love for the skies. Johnson worked as an electrician and was well known throughout Washington for his skill and professionalism. In his spare time, he enjoyed hiking and outdoor adventures with his family.
Johnson leaves behind his wife, Megan, and two young children. Megan Johnson shared her grief in a brief interview with local news, expressing the profound loss her family is facing.
“Mark was an incredible husband and father. He was someone who lived for his family, and everything he did was for us. We still can’t believe he’s gone, and we’re struggling to make sense of how this could happen. He loved flying with Michael, but we never thought something like this could happen. Our hearts are broken.”
Johnson’s coworkers and friends echoed these sentiments, remembering him as a loyal friend, a skilled tradesman, and a devoted family man. Several members of his church organized a prayer vigil on the night of the crash to offer support to the grieving family.
The Investigation: NTSB and FAA Search for Answers
In the aftermath of the crash, the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) and the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) launched a full-scale investigation to determine the cause of the fatal accident. Investigators have already begun reviewing the flight plan, maintenance records of the aircraft, and any relevant communications between the pilot and air traffic control. The preliminary investigation has not revealed any immediate signs of pilot error or adverse weather conditions, leading experts to focus on potential mechanical failure or a catastrophic engine malfunction.
The Piper PA-32 aircraft, which is known for its reliability in small-scale aviation, had passed its most recent maintenance inspection earlier in the summer, according to airport officials. However, mechanical failure cannot be ruled out until the wreckage is fully examined.
The plane remains submerged in Utah Lake, and recovery efforts are ongoing as investigators attempt to retrieve the aircraft’s key components, including the engine and flight control systems. Once recovered, the wreckage will be transported to a secure location for analysis.
NTSB spokesperson Greg Johnson provided a statement to the media, acknowledging the complexity of the investigation.
“This is a tragic accident, and our hearts go out to the families of Mr. Cox and Mr. Johnson. Our team is working diligently to recover the wreckage from Utah Lake and begin the process of determining what caused this crash. While it is too early to speculate on the exact cause, we will be examining all potential factors, including mechanical issues, human factors, and environmental conditions.”
The investigation is expected to take several months before a final report is issued. In the meantime, officials are urging the public to refrain from speculation and allow the investigative process to run its course.
The Role of Small Aircraft in Utah: A Growing Passion and a Rising Risk
Utah has long been a haven for small aircraft enthusiasts, with its wide-open skies and stunning landscapes providing the perfect backdrop for recreational flying. Small planes like the Piper PA-32 are commonly used by hobbyists, private pilots, and charter operators throughout the state. However, with the increase in small aircraft activity comes a corresponding rise in accidents and incidents.
According to the FAA’s aviation accident database, Utah has seen a 15% increase in small aircraft accidents over the past five years. While the vast majority of these incidents result in minor injuries or none at all, a troubling number have ended in fatalities. Experts point to a variety of factors contributing to this rise, including aging aircraft, pilot error, and unexpected mechanical failures.
Aviation safety expert Doug Rinehart explained the risks associated with small aircraft flying in a state like Utah.
“Flying small planes comes with inherent risks, especially in areas like Utah where you have varying terrain, changing weather patterns, and a mix of experienced and inexperienced pilots. Mechanical failures are not uncommon, but they are often preventable with proper maintenance and inspections. The challenge is that many private pilots may not always have the resources to ensure their planes are in top condition, and that can lead to tragic outcomes.”
Rinehart emphasized that despite the risks, small aircraft flying remains one of the safest modes of transportation when proper safety protocols are followed. He hopes that the tragic deaths of Cox and Johnson will lead to renewed attention on aviation safety, particularly in the maintenance of aging aircraft.
The Emotional and Social Impact on the Community
The deaths of Michael Hyrum Cox and Mark Andrew Johnson have left deep emotional scars on the communities of St. George and Washington. Both men were well-loved, and their sudden loss has created a ripple effect of grief throughout their families, friends, and colleagues.
Vigils and memorials have been planned in both communities to honor the lives of the two men, with hundreds expected to attend. At the local airport where Cox frequently flew, a temporary memorial has been set up, with flowers, photos, and handwritten messages from friends and fellow pilots. A nearby church is organizing a charity
