Skipper Beck is dead in a plane crash Friday. Skipper Beck of Beck Management Group and the Charlotte Bobcats has died a plane crash.

Here is the latest.

William “Skipper” Beck, 49, died in plane crash at 7:15 am local time at a local South Carolina airport. The plane returned to the airport after take off, but when trying to land upon return, it crashed and caught on fire. Beck is the only person believed on board.

Beck was co owner with Robert L. Johnson who issued a statement moments ago:

“The entire Bobcats Sports and Entertainment family mourns the loss of our partner and great friend, Skipper Beck. We extend our heartfelt condolences to his family, colleagues and friends.

“Not only has Bobcats Sports and Entertainment lost an energetic business champion, but so has the Charlotte business community. Skipper loved basketball and was instrumental in bringing the Bobcats to Charlotte, and as an owner, he was without question the Bobcats greatest fan. We will miss him at courtside.”

Beck’s family has issued the following statement:

“[We request] the public and media respect their privacy during this very difficult time.”

Beck was also owner of Mercedes-Benz Beck Imports of the Carolinas before it was sold to Hendrick Automotive Group earlier this year.

On Beck Management Group’s website, Skipper recently blogged:

“I have always teased my wife and others that anything that had a motor in it I could drive it. Well I also have a desire to fly it. I am currently flying a 2008 Cirrus SR22 G3 Turbo and working to get my instrument rating this summer.”

Funeral arrangements have not been announced. Send your love. Skipper Beck will be greatly missed.