Lakewood Church Mourns Staff Member Killed in Maine Private Jet Crash
BANGOR, Maine — A tragic plane crash in Maine has claimed the life of Shawna Collins, a beloved staff member of Joel Osteen’s Lakewood Church in Houston, Texas. The private Bombardier Challenger 600 jet carrying Collins and five others crashed shortly after takeoff from Bangor International Airport on Sunday evening, killing all six aboard.
The Federal Aviation Administration confirmed the accident, which occurred as the aircraft attempted to depart amid deteriorating winter weather conditions. The jet had stopped to refuel in Bangor during light snow and near-zero temperatures, just as a major winter storm was moving into the area. According to the FAA, the plane flipped and caught fire during its departure roll.
Lakewood Church described Collins as a “light that brightened our days” and said she “possessed a beautiful spirit that lifted everyone she met.” The church emphasized that Collins was traveling for personal business unrelated to her work at the Houston-based ministry. “We loved Shawna dearly, and we will miss her more than words can express,” the church said in a statement to The Christian Post. “We pray for her entire family and offer them our deepest condolences.”
The crash has drawn attention to the challenges of private aviation during winter weather events. Bangor International Airport, a key refueling stop for transatlantic and domestic private jets, was under a winter storm warning issued by the National Weather Service at the time of the accident. The storm brought snow, ice, and gusty winds, complicating flight operations.
Authorities from the Maine State Police and local emergency responders conducted recovery and investigation efforts at the crash site. The National Transportation Safety Board is expected to lead the official inquiry into the cause of the accident.
Private jet travel has become increasingly common among business and religious leaders, but safety experts caution that adverse weather remains a significant risk factor. The FAA continues to monitor and regulate private aviation operations to improve safety standards.
As the Lakewood Church community grieves the loss of Collins, her colleagues and friends remember her warmth and dedication. “She was a treasured friend and a beloved member of our church staff,” the church said, highlighting the profound impact she had on those around her.
The incident serves as a somber reminder of the fragility of life and the importance of safety in aviation, especially during challenging weather conditions. The families of all victims await further details as investigations proceed.
Leave a Reply