Private Jet Crash Claims Six Lives During Winter Storm
Six individuals, including a commercial lawyer, a pilot, and an event planner, have been identified as victims of a tragic private jet crash that occurred shortly after takeoff from Bangor International Airport in Maine. The aircraft, a Bombardier Challenger 600 bound for Paris, flipped over and burst into flames on Sunday evening, with all on board perishing in the incident.
Victims on a 'Girls' Trip' and Business Travel
Among the deceased was Tara Arnold, a 46-year-old commercial lawyer from Houston, who was traveling to Paris for a holiday with friends. Tara, who worked at her husband Kurt Arnold's law firm, Arnold & Itkin Law, where the jet was registered, was described by Texas politician Lesley Briones as a "phenomenal person, a bold leader, and someone with a heart of service." She left behind two children and a legacy of dedication to her clients, as reflected in her firm's profile statement about protecting people's lives and futures.
Also killed was Jacob Hosmer, the pilot who had been with Arnold & Itkin Law for less than a year. His family confirmed his death, with his father stating he is "in Heaven now with Jesus." Friends remembered him as a great pilot, loving husband, and phenomenal father, always kind and laughing. Shawna Collins, an event planner on a business trip to Europe, was another passenger identified in the crash.
Crash Details and Investigation
The private jet had departed from Hobby Airport in Houston, landing in Maine at 6:09 PM for refueling before taking off again around 7:45 PM. As a winter storm brought heavy snow and wind across the East Coast, the aircraft fell moments after departure. Air traffic controllers reported seeing the craft upside down, highlighting the severity of the accident.
Initially, the Federal Aviation Administration stated eight people were on board, but flight manifests later confirmed four passengers and two crew members. The cause of the crash remains unclear, according to airport authorities, with investigations ongoing.
Impact and Response
Bangor International Airport will be closed until at least tomorrow, affecting flights and prompting airlines to communicate directly with passengers about travel changes. The incident has sparked condolences and mourning from communities in Texas and beyond, as families and friends grapple with the loss.
This tragedy underscores the risks of aviation during severe weather conditions and has drawn attention to safety protocols for private flights. As the investigation progresses, more details may emerge about the factors contributing to the crash.
