Nick Mastrascusa dies in fatal Maine, Bangor private plane crash

Nick Mastrascusa dies in fatal Maine, Bangor private plane crash
Fatal Maine, Bangor plane crash death of Nick Mastrascusa – Obituary

Nick Mastrascusa, a renowned Hawaiian chef and father of three, was among the six people who lost their lives in a devastating private jet crash at Bangor International Airport in Maine. Nick Mastrascusa was publicly identified as the fourth victim after the aircraft overturned and erupted into flames moments after takeoff on the evening of January 25.

Mastrascusa’s identity was shared through an online fundraising campaign created to assist his family. He was serving as executive vice president of hospitality for the luxury travel company Beyond, founded by attorney Kurt Arnold. The aircraft involved in the crash belonged to Arnold & Itkin Law, the firm owned by Kurt Arnold, whose wife, Tara Arnold, 46, was also previously confirmed as one of the victims.

In a statement included on the fundraiser page, organizers described Mastrascusa as a deeply compassionate and generous individual who had a lasting impact on those around him. The message expressed sympathy for his wife, Natalia, and their three children: Analani, a ninth-grade student; Mateo, in fifth grade; and Noah, who is in second grade.

Authorities have also confirmed that the pilot killed in the crash was 47-year-old Jacob Hosmer of Houston. His father confirmed his death, and professional records indicate Hosmer had been flying for Arnold & Itkin since May 2025. Another passenger, Shawna Collins, an event planner, was identified by her daughter, who stated that the group was traveling to Europe for a work-related trip.

Officials say two additional individuals who were onboard the aircraft have not yet been publicly named. The Federal Aviation Administration reported that the aircraft was a Bombardier Challenger 600 and that it went down around 7:45 p.m. shortly after departure.

The Bangor Police Department stated that only one aircraft was involved in the incident. Emergency crews remained at the crash site late into the night, continuing recovery and investigative efforts as authorities work to determine the cause of the tragic accident.