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Top Hawaiian chef and dad of three killed in Maine plane crash
Nick Mastrascusa was one of six people who died when a private jet crashed and burst into flames during takeoff from Bangor International Airport.
Jan. 27, 2026 at 11:55pm
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Nick Mastrascusa, a top Hawaiian chef and executive vice president of hospitality for a luxury travel company, was identified as one of the six people killed when a private jet crashed and burst into flames in Maine on Sunday. Mastrascusa, a father of three young children, was on board the Bombardier Challenger 600 owned by the Houston-based Arnold & Itkin law firm when the plane flipped over and crashed during takeoff from Bangor International Airport.
Why it matters
The tragic plane crash has shaken the local community and the hospitality industry, as Mastrascusa was a well-respected and accomplished chef who had worked at some of the world's most celebrated luxury hotels, private clubs, and resorts over the past two decades.
The details
The private jet, which can seat up to 11 people, crashed back onto the runway and exploded after taking off on the snowy runway, killing everyone on board. Tara Arnold, 46, pilot Jacob Hosmer, 47, and event planner Shawna Collins have also been identified as victims of the crash. The NTSB is investigating the cause of the accident.
- The plane crashed around 7:45 p.m. on Sunday, January 28, 2026.
- NTSB investigators arrived on the scene on Tuesday, January 30, 2026.
The players
Nick Mastrascusa
A top Hawaiian chef and executive vice president of hospitality for the luxury travel company 'Beyond', founded by Kurt Arnold and Tara Arnold. Mastrascusa was a father of three young children.
Tara Arnold
One of the founders of the luxury travel company 'Beyond', who also died in the plane crash.
Kurt Arnold
The co-founder of the luxury travel company 'Beyond' and Tara Arnold's business partner. He was not on the plane when it crashed.
Jacob Hosmer
The 47-year-old pilot of the private jet that crashed.
Shawna Collins
An event planner who was one of the six people killed in the plane crash.
What’s next
The NTSB is investigating the cause of the plane crash, and officials are working to identify the remains of the other victims.
The takeaway
This tragic incident has deeply impacted the local community and the hospitality industry, as Nick Mastrascusa was a well-respected and accomplished chef who leaves behind a loving family. The investigation into the cause of the crash is ongoing.
