Six people killed after plane crashes shortly after takeoff in Ohio

On Sunday, June 29, 2025, six people tragically died in a plane crash in Howland Township, Ohio, just a few miles from the Youngstown-Warren Regional Airport. According to officials, the small Cessna 441 twin-engine aircraft took off around 7 a.m. and crashed merely seven minutes later while en route to Bozeman, Montana. The investigation into the circumstances surrounding the crash has been initiated by both the National Transportation Safety Board and the Federal Aviation Administration. As the community mourns this devastating loss, local authorities have confirmed that the bodies of the deceased have been retrieved from the crash site, which was located in a heavily wooded area. Responders faced challenges accessing the wreckage due to difficult terrain. A nearby resident reported hearing what sounded like a large explosion and seeing flames, which prompted a 911 call. Fire Chief Ray Pace stated that the Youngstown Air Reserve Station assisted in extinguishing the resultant fire in the woods. In a poignant reflection on the tragedy, Anthony Travena, Executive Director of the Western Reserve Port Authority, noted the tight-knit nature of the aviation community and expressed condolences to the families affected. To ensure respect for the victims, their identities have not yet been disclosed, allowing loved ones time to grieve. In a heartfelt statement, Mike Hillman, President of JETS Fixed Based Operators, shared that the individuals on board were highly regarded members of the community. This incident is marked as one of the deadliest aviation tragedies in the region in recent history, leaving friends and family devastated. The community rallies together in support during this extremely difficult time, highlighting the strong bonds among those who work in aviation.