Roswell Church Mourns Man Killed in Gwinnett Plane Crash

Stephens, founder of Roswell-based health technology company zPaper, was one of two men aboard a Velocity 173 F-G aircraft that crashed near Gwinnett County Airport in Gwinnett County, Georgia. The other man was identified as Peter Magnuson and survived the crash. Emergency crews responded near Winder Highway and Bacchus Drive at about 5:30 p.m. on November 10. Stephens later died.

Flight records show the plane had been in the air for about 90 minutes after departing Briscoe Field. The pilot reported engine trouble and declared an emergency while attempting to land. Authorities have not said which man was piloting the aircraft or identified the mechanical failure that led to the crash.

Roswell United Methodist Church held a prayer vigil on November 11 for Stephens, his wife, Cammie, and their two daughters. Stephens had been part of the church choir for about 30 years and also mentored members through its men’s ministry. Pastor Derek Porter remembered him as deeply devoted to his faith and committed to helping others.

Stephens built zPaper over more than 20 years, the company’s chief operating officer, Ken Schumacher, said in a statement. The company said it would continue Stephens’ vision of helping patients manage their health through digital document tools.

The National Transportation Safety Board is investigating the crash. The agency’s next update is expected in a preliminary report within 30 days. Porter said donations in Stephens’ memory could be directed to the church choir.