Bangor Plane Crash Kills Six: Officials Release Remaining Victims’ Names

 BANGOR, ME — Authorities in Maine have confirmed the identities of the final two victims of the January 25 plane crash at Bangor International Airport, bringing closure to families after a tragedy that claimed six lives.

The Office of the Chief Medical Examiner identified the victims as Shelby Kuyawa, 34, a sommelier from Hawaii, and Jorden Reidel, 33, a co‑pilot from Texas. Their names were released Tuesday by Bangor Police, completing the identification process that had been delayed due to the intense fire that followed the crash.

Previously identified victims include Tara Arnold, 46, a Texas attorney; Jacob Hosmer, 47, the pilot; Shawna Collins, 53, an event planner; and Nick Mastrascusa, 43, a chef. Together, the six individuals represented a diverse group of professionals whose lives ended abruptly in the fiery accident.

The crash involved a Bombardier Challenger 600, a business jet reportedly linked to a Houston law firm. According to the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), the aircraft had stopped in Bangor to refuel while en route from Houston to France’s Champagne region. Shortly after takeoff, amid a snowstorm, the jet failed to gain altitude, crashed, and burst into flames.

Emergency responders rushed to the scene, but the intensity of the fire made recovery and identification efforts difficult. Family members and friends had tentatively named four victims earlier, but official confirmation required forensic examination. The announcement of Kuyawa and Reidel’s identities marks the final step in that process.

The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) is leading the investigation into the cause of the crash. Officials are examining weather conditions, aircraft maintenance records, and pilot communications to determine what led to the disaster. While preliminary findings have not yet been released, investigators are expected to provide updates in the coming weeks.

Airport operations were disrupted for several days following the crash, as crews worked to clear debris and ensure safety for future flights. Bangor International Airport has since resumed normal operations, but the incident has left a lasting impact on staff and the broader community.

Tributes have poured in for the victims, each remembered for their contributions and passions. Kuyawa was celebrated for her expertise in wine and hospitality, while Reidel was recognized for his dedication to aviation. Arnold’s colleagues described her as a sharp legal mind, Hosmer as a skilled pilot, Collins as a creative planner, and Mastrascusa as a chef whose talents brought joy to many.

Community members in Bangor and beyond have expressed sorrow over the tragedy, noting the randomness of life and the fragility of travel during harsh winter conditions. Vigils and memorials are expected to be organized by families and friends, offering opportunities to honor the lives lost.

As the investigation continues, the focus remains on supporting grieving families and ensuring that lessons are learned to prevent similar tragedies. For now, the confirmation of all six victims provides a measure of closure, even as questions about the crash’s cause linger.

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