On January 25, 2026, a Bombardier Challenger 650 private jet crashed at Bangor International Airport, leaving all six occupants deceased. The plane took off in Houston, before landing at BGR for a routine fuel stop, carrying four passengers and two pilots.
The plane was supposed to continue to the Champagne region of France. However, there was a winter storm with snow, wind and poor visibility for the pilots. There had been reports of the storm dropping frozen rain, snow and sleet all across the eastern coast. This led to many disruptions in air traffic control in the weeks leading up to the crash.
The Federal Aviation Administration released a preliminary statement, reporting that the crash happened “under unknown circumstances and caught fire when it hit the runway.” However, it is speculated that the plane crashed shortly after takeoff and was forcibly turned upside down due to the extreme weather conditions.
The plane is owned by the Houston-based law firm Arnold & Itkin, traveling to France for a business trip. The Bombardier Challenger 650 is a long-range business jet that is frequently used for private international travel.
This crash was the deadliest aviation crash in Maine since 1985.
The National Transportation Safety Board has launched a formal investigation into the crash and is making federal efforts to determine the cause. The aircraft’s flight data recorder, maintenance history and communication between pilots and air traffic controllers are all being examined by investigators.
Officials have released statements emphasizing that it will take multiple months before a final report detailing the cause of the crash can be released.
Portions of BGR were temporarily closed while authorities examined the wreckage and verified its safety. Officials stated that there was no danger to those inside the terminal during the crash.
Local authorities have confirmed this as the list of those deceased: Tara Arnold, Shawna Collins, Nick Mastrascusa, Shelby Kuyawa, Captain Jacob Hosmer and First Officer Jorden Reidel.
Tara Arnold was a 46-year-old Houston attorney who was leading the team that was traveling to France and was the Co-founder of a luxury travel company. Shawna Collins, 53 years old, was Arnold’s event coordinator and the mother of five. Nick Mastrascusa was 46-years-old and was the head chef in charge of hospitality. Mastrascusa was a father of three. Shelby Kuyawa was a 34-year-old sommelier (wine steward) who specialized in travel and hospitality.
Captain Jacob Hosmer was 47-years-old, based in Texas, and the father of two sons. First Officer Jordan Reidel was only 33-years-old, the youngest among those in the crash, leaving behind his young daughter and wife.
Community members, colleagues and aviation professionals have expressed condolences to the families and remembered the victims for their professional achievements and personal contributions. Local news stations have already published the victims’ obituaries, reflections of the lives of the victims who were pillars of their respective communities, and reported on this tragic incident that has taken the lives of six Americans.
