Tragedy Strikes: 'Tarzan' Star Joe Lara and Prominent Wife Gwen Shamblin Among Seven Killed in Horrific Plane Crash

The entertainment world and a spiritual community are in mourning following a devastating plane crash that claimed the lives of actor Joe Lara, widely known for his portrayal of Tarzan, and his influential wife, Gwen Lara (née Shamblin), along with five other individuals.

The horrific incident occurred on Saturday, May 29, 2021, when a small Cessna C501 jet plummeted into Percy Priest Lake near Smyrna, Tennessee, shortly after takeoff.

Authorities confirmed that all seven occupants aboard the aircraft perished in the crash, leaving a community reeling from the sudden and profound loss.

Joe Lara, 58, rose to fame for his lead role in the 1996 television series "Tarzan: The Epic Adventures" and had a significant career in action films throughout the 1990s.

His untimely death sends shockwaves through Hollywood and among fans who remembered his iconic jungle hero.

Alongside him was his wife, Gwen Shamblin Lara, 66, a highly recognized figure in religious circles. She was the founder of the Remnant Fellowship Church in Brentwood, Tennessee, and the creator of the Weigh Down Workshop, a Christian-based weight loss program that gained national prominence.

Her passing leaves a massive void within her church and among her many followers.

The other victims identified were Brandon Hannah, David L. Shamblin, Jonathan Walters, Jennifer J. Walters, and Jessica Walters. All seven individuals were residents of Brentwood, Tennessee, underscoring the deep impact this tragedy has had on the local community.

According to preliminary reports, the Cessna C501 was bound for Palm Beach, Florida, when it experienced an engine failure shortly after departing from Smyrna, Tennessee.

Witnesses reported seeing the plane descend rapidly before crashing into the lake. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) have launched a full investigation to determine the exact cause of the catastrophic accident.

Recovery efforts at Percy Priest Lake have been extensive, with emergency crews working tirelessly to locate debris and the remains of the victims.

The immense scale of the search operation highlights the challenging conditions faced by responders.

This heartbreaking event has prompted an outpouring of grief and condolences from across the country. Tributes have flowed in for Joe Lara, remembering his charismatic performances, and for Gwen Shamblin Lara, acknowledging her profound impact on countless lives through her ministries.

The tight-knit Remnant Fellowship Church community, in particular, faces an immense period of mourning and reflection as they come to terms with the loss of their beloved leaders and fellow members.

As the investigation continues, the focus remains on supporting the grieving families and understanding the circumstances that led to this devastating and sudden tragedy that has claimed so many lives.