On Sunday, January 28, 2026, the tragic crash of a private jet in Maine claimed the lives of six people, including a renowned Hawaiian chef, Nick Mastrascusa.
The accident occurred during takeoff from Bangor International Airport, and the aircraft, a Bombardier Challenger 600 owned by the Houston-based Arnold & Itkin law firm, crashed and caught fire.
Per ABC13 Houston, Mastrascusa was traveling with his family and colleagues, and is remembered for his contributions to the hospitality industry and his dedication to his loved ones.
Mastrascusa, the executive vice president of hospitality for a luxury travel company called “Beyond,” leaves behind his wife, Natalia, and their three children. His death follows that of several others on the flight, including his business partner, Tara Arnold, and pilot Jacob Hosmer.
Mastrascusa was an award-winning chef and sommelier with two decades of experience at luxury hotels, private clubs, and resorts. Most recently, he was the executive chef at Discovery Land’s Kūkiʻo Golf and Beach Club in Hawaii, overseeing multiple restaurants and an exclusive wine program.
A close-knit community mourns the loss
In a statement shared on a GoFundMe campaign for Mastrascusa’s family, the chef was remembered for his kindness, generosity, and strong bonds with the community. “Nick touched the lives of so many in our community through his kindness, dedication, generosity, and friendship,” the statement said.
The campaign, which aims to raise $200,000 to support his family, has already gathered over $117,000.
Nick’s background includes attending Johnson & Wales University in Miami and the Culinary Institute of America in Napa Valley, focusing on luxury hospitality. His work made a significant impact in the culinary world, especially in luxury travel.
Mastrascusa is mourned not only for his professional achievements but for his role as a father, coach, and friend.
Final moments before the crash
The final moments of the flight have raised questions after an eerie voice was heard over the plane’s radio just before takeoff. The voice said, “Let there be light,” though the meaning remains unclear.
Moments later, the plane flipped over and exploded on the runway, killing everyone on board. The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) is investigating the cause of the crash, and the identities of two other victims have not been released as of yet.
The incident is part of a larger tragedy that affected a close group of people, including Kurt Arnold and Jason Itkin, who were not on the plane during the crash. The investigation is ongoing, and officials are working to piece together the events that led to this devastating accident.