HOUSTON, Texas / BANGOR, Maine — The close-knit congregation of Lakewood Church and the wider Houston community are reeling from a devastating loss this week following the confirmation of a catastrophic aviation accident in the snowy reaches of Maine. Shawna Collins, 53, a cherished long-time staff member at the church and a renowned event planner, has been identified as one of the six victims killed when a private jet crashed during takeoff at Bangor International Airport.

The accident, which occurred on Sunday, January 25, 2026, has cut short the life of a woman described by friends as a “force of positivity” and left families across Texas and beyond in a state of profound mourning. What was meant to be a refueling stop on an exciting journey to France turned into a nightmare scenario, claiming the lives of everyone on board.

As federal investigators sift through the wreckage on the frozen tarmac in Bangor, loved ones in Houston are gathering to remember a mother, grandmother, and professional whose life was defined by the joy she created for others.

Breaking: Disaster on the Runway

The tragedy unfolded on a cold Sunday evening in Bangor, Maine, a common stopover point for trans-Atlantic flights originating from the southern United States. The aircraft involved was a Bombardier Challenger 600, a popular business jet capable of long-haul travel.

• The Route: The jet had departed from Houston, Texas, and stopped in Bangor for fuel and customs clearance before its intended final destination in France.

• The Crash: At the time of the attempted takeoff, winter weather conditions were severe. Reports indicate that ice and snow were factors in the region. As the jet sped down the runway, something went terribly wrong. The aircraft failed to achieve lift, crashing at the end of the runway and bursting into flames.

No Survivors: Emergency crews from the airport and the city of Bangor responded instantly, braving the freezing temperatures and fire. However, the impact was too severe. All six souls on board—two pilots and four passengers, including Shawna Collins—perished at the scene.

The Victim: Shawna Collins, 53

Shawna Collins was more than a passenger manifest name; she was a pillar of her community in Houston. At 53, she was in the prime of her career and personal life. Lakewood Church Legacy: For years, Collins served on the staff of Lakewood Church, one of the largest and most influential congregations in the United States. In a heartfelt statement, the church leadership expressed their devastation: “Shawna was a beloved colleague and friend whose warmth and positive energy left a lasting impression on those around her.” They described her as “a light that brightened our days.” In a ministry the size of Lakewood, it takes special people to make the environment feel personal and welcoming. Shawna was one of those people. She worked behind the scenes to ensure that the church’s mission moved forward, treating every task with a spirit of excellence and grace.

The Event Planner: Beyond her church work, Shawna was a gifted event planner.

• Creating Memories: Her profession was literally to create joy. She planned family celebrations, weddings, and high-stakes business events. She had an eye for detail and a heart for hospitality.

• Excitement for the Future: Reports indicate she was “excited about future travel and work opportunities.” The trip to France was likely part of this vibrant professional chapter—a chance to explore new venues or curate experiences for clients. To have her life end while she was pursuing her passion is a bitter pill for her colleagues to swallow.

Family Matriarch: Most importantly, Shawna was a mother and grandmother. Friends remember her as a “cherished” presence in her family. She was the planner of birthday parties, the keeper of traditions, and the glue that held her loved ones together. Her loss leaves a generational void that will be felt at every future holiday table.

The Other Lives Lost

The tragedy is compounded by the loss of five other talented individuals. Authorities have confirmed the identities of those who died alongside Shawna:

• Nick Mastrascusa

• Tara Arnold

• Shelby Kuyawa

• Jacob Hosmer (Pilot)

• Jorden Reidel (Co-Pilot)

This group represented a collection of friends, colleagues, and professionals who were likely filled with anticipation for their trip abroad. Their families in Texas, Hawaii, and beyond are now united in a shared, unthinkable grief.

The Investigation: NTSB and FAA

Why did a modern jet crash on takeoff? That is the question haunting the families. The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) and the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) have launched a major investigation. Focus Factors:

• Weather: “Winter weather and icy conditions were present at the time of the accident.” Investigators will focus heavily on icing. Even a small layer of ice on the wings of a Challenger 600 can disrupt airflow enough to prevent the plane from flying. Was the plane de-iced properly before takeoff? Did the de-icing fluid fail in the extreme cold?

• Mechanical Failure: Was there an issue with the engines or the flight control surfaces?

• Pilot Error: Did the crew make the right calculations for the runway length and conditions?

The NTSB team arrived in Bangor shortly after the crash. They will analyze the “black boxes” (Cockpit Voice Recorder and Flight Data Recorder), which will provide the final conversations of the crew and the technical data of the aircraft’s performance. A preliminary report is expected soon, but the final determination of probable cause could take over a year.

Community Reaction: A City Mourns

Back in Houston, the shock is palpable. Tributes: Social media has been flooded with memories of Shawna.

• “She planned my wedding. She made everything perfect. I can’t believe she’s gone.”

• “I worked with her at Lakewood. She was the kindest person in the building.”

• “Praying for her grandbabies. She loved them so much.”

The tragedy serves as a reminder of the fragility of life. One moment, Shawna was planning an exciting trip to France; the next, she was gone. The Lakewood Church community has rallied around her family, offering prayers, meals, and support during this dark time.

Conclusion

Shawna Collins lived a life of service. Whether she was serving her church, serving her clients, or serving her family, she did it with love. She died as she lived: moving forward, embracing new adventures, and surrounded by friends.

The crash at Bangor International Airport has left a scar on two cities—Bangor, where the tragedy struck, and Houston, where the hearts are broken. As the investigation continues, the memory of Shawna Collins will remain a guiding light for those who knew her. She taught us to plan the party, take the trip, and love our families, because we never know when the journey will end.

Rest in Peace, Shawna Collins.

---

Summary of Key Facts:

• Victim: Shawna Collins, 53.

• Role: Lakewood Church Staff / Event Planner.

• Incident: Private Jet Crash (Bombardier Challenger 600).

• Date: Sunday, January 25, 2026.

• Location: Bangor International Airport, Maine.

• Route: Houston to France (Refueling in Bangor).

• Cause: Under Investigation (NTSB/FAA); Icy conditions cited.

• Other Victims: Nick Mastrascusa, Tara Arnold, Shelby Kuyawa, Jacob Hosmer, Jorden Reidel.

This is a developing story. We will provide updates on memorial services and the NTSB investigation findings as they are released.