HOWLAND TWP., Ohio — Authorities have identified all six people who died in a tragic plane crash Sunday morning shortly after taking off from Youngstown Regional Airport. The crash, which happened just minutes after departure, is now being called the deadliest in the history of Howland Township.
According to the Trumbull County Coroner, the victims include the pilot, 63-year-old Joseph Maxin, and co-pilot, 55-year-old Timothy Blake. The four passengers were members of the Weller family: 68-year-old Veronica Weller, 67-year-old James Weller, 36-year-old John Weller, and 34-year-old Maria Weller. All six were killed when the Cessna 441 aircraft went down in a wooded area about two miles west of the airport.
The plane crashed at approximately 7:01 a.m. in the backyard of a home near King Graves Road and Henn Hyde Road. Emergency crews rushed to the scene after receiving reports of the crash from nearby residents. Due to the dense forest surrounding the crash site, first responders faced significant challenges in reaching the wreckage, though no injuries were reported among rescue workers.
At a press conference, Howland Township Fire Chief Raymond Pace said the crash was the most severe the township has ever seen. Roads near the crash site, including King Graves Road and Henn Hyde Road, have been closed as authorities secure the area. Chief Pace added that King Graves Road could remain closed throughout the day to allow for a thorough investigation.
The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) has launched a formal investigation into the cause of the crash. Two NTSB investigators arrived at the scene Sunday evening and are expected to remain on site through Wednesday. Officials said the investigation would look into the pilot’s background, the aircraft’s maintenance records, and any issues with equipment or weather that may have played a role.
Trumbull County Emergency Management Director John Hickey confirmed that both a hazmat team and a drone unit were deployed to assist with safety and documentation. As the community mourns the loss of six lives, local and federal officials are working to uncover what led to this devastating accident. More information will be released as the investigation progresses.