John Walton, son of Wal-Mart founder Sam Walton, has died in a light aircraft crash in Wyoming.

Although he did not work for the company, John was a member of the Wal-Mart board. He was the world's 11th richest person, reportedly worth more than £10 billion.

No-one else was aboard the plane piloted by the 58-year-old. The reason for the crash is not yet clear.

An army veteran who served in the Vietnam War, John Walton was awarded a Silver Star for saving the lives of several members of his unit while under enemy fire, according to Wal-Mart.

He is survived by his wife and their son.

Topics