Joel Osteen's Megachurch Mourns Staffer Killed in Maine Plane Crash

Shawna Collins was one of six people who died when the private jet they were flying to Paris crashed during departure from Bangor.

Jan. 29, 2026 at 9:39am

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Joel Osteen's Lakewood megachurch in Houston, Texas is mourning the loss of a beloved staff member, Shawna Collins, who was killed in a plane crash in Maine on Sunday. Collins was one of six people aboard a private jet that flipped and caught fire during departure from Bangor International Airport in the midst of a winter storm.

Why it matters

The tragic plane crash has shaken Osteen's megachurch community, which is remembering Collins as a cherished employee who brightened the days of those around her. The investigation into the cause of the crash has been hampered by extreme weather conditions in the region.

The details

The private jet Collins was traveling on, a Bombardier Challenger 600, had stopped at Bangor International Airport to refuel during the snow and near-zero temperatures as a massive winter storm swept through the northeast. The jet was registered to a partner of Houston-based personal injury law firm Arnold and Itkin Trial Lawyers, and the firm's attorney Tara Arnold was also among the six killed in the crash.

  • The plane crash occurred on Sunday evening.
  • Lakewood Church confirmed Collins' death on Wednesday.

The players

Joel Osteen

The senior pastor of Lakewood Church, a megachurch in Houston, Texas.

Shawna Collins

A beloved staff member at Lakewood Church who was killed in the plane crash.

Tara Arnold

An attorney at the Houston-based personal injury law firm Arnold and Itkin Trial Lawyers, who was also killed in the plane crash.

Kurt Arnold

The founding partner of the Houston-based personal injury law firm Arnold and Itkin Trial Lawyers, and the husband of Tara Arnold.

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What they’re saying

“She was a light that brightened our days, and she possessed a beautiful spirit that lifted everyone she met. We loved Shawna dearly, and we will miss her more than words can express. We pray for her entire family and offer them our love and support during this difficult time.”

— Lakewood Church Spokesperson

What’s next

The federal investigation into the cause of the plane crash has been hampered by the extreme weather conditions, with deep snow covering the burned wreckage. Bangor International Airport was scheduled to remain closed until Thursday morning at the earliest.

The takeaway

The tragic plane crash has deeply impacted the Lakewood Church community, which is mourning the loss of a beloved staff member who was remembered for her positive spirit and impact on those around her. The investigation into the incident is ongoing, with weather conditions posing challenges for federal authorities.