A routine departure turned into an unspeakable tragedy Sunday night at Bangor International Airport, where a private jet bound for Paris never made it into the sky. Instead, the aircraft rolled, flipped completely upside down, and erupted into a massive fireballโkilling all six people onboard in a horrifying runway disaster that has shaken Maine and the global hospitality community.
The crash occurred around 7:45 p.m. on January 25, as a Bombardier Challenger 600 began its takeoff roll amid heavy snow and freezing winter conditions. Moments after accelerating down the runway, the jet lost control, overturned, and burst into flames. First responders battled intense fire and brutal weather, but no one inside the aircraft survived.
Among the victims was Shelby Kuyawa, 34, a beloved sommelier remembered for her passion for wine, storytelling, and human connection. Also killed were Nick Mastrascusa, 43, a father of three and executive vice president of hospitality for luxury travel company Beyond; Tara Arnold, 46, an attorney and company leader; Shawna Collins, an event planner; and Jacob Hosmer, 47, the pilot. A sixth victim has not yet been publicly identified as authorities complete the formal process.
