Private Jet Crash in Maine Claims Six Lives
A private business jet heading to France tragically crashed and caught fire shortly after takeoff from Bangor International Airport in Maine on Sunday night. All six individuals on board lost their lives, leaving families and friends in mourning.
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) reported that the aircraft flipped upside down while taking off during winter storm Fern around 7:45 p.m. local time. Just before the ill-fated ascent, a voice was heard on the in-flight radio saying, “Let there be light.” An air traffic controller quickly noted, “The plane is upside down,” prompting emergency teams to rush to the scene.
The cause of the crash remains undetermined, with FAA officials citing “unknown circumstances” during takeoff. The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) has been informed and will conduct an investigation.
The jet belonged to a partner at Arnold & Itkin Trial Lawyers, a personal injury law firm based in Houston. Notably, Tara Arnold, one of the firm’s attorneys and wife of founding partner Kurt Arnold, was on the flight. She was 46 years old, a mother of two, and, as reported, had a promising career.
Kurt Arnold, who has secured over $20 billion in verdicts for his clients, along with his business partner Jason Itkin, was reportedly not aboard the plane. Attorneys representing Arnold and Itkin have yet to comment on the situation.
Among the deceased was pilot Jacob Hosmer, 47, who was flying the aircraft, alongside his father, Gary. Fellow pilot Bob Howie shared his grief on social media, expressing his sorrow over the loss of his friend and the co-pilot. A cousin of Hosmer remembered him as a “role model,” highlighting the impact he had on those around him.
The crash happened amidst various weather-related disruptions, with many flights canceled or delayed due to the winter storm. Shauna Collins was also confirmed as one of the victims; her daughter stated that Collins was traveling for a business trip to Europe.
The identities of the remaining individuals aboard the jet have yet to be confirmed by authorities. Following the crash, the airport canceled or diverted flights and remained closed on Monday, according to an update from the Bangor, Maine, Police Department.
