The small, peaceful community of Howland Township, Ohio, has been left in shock and mourning after a devastating small plane crash on Sunday morning claimed the lives of six people. The crash, which took place shortly after 9:00 a.m. near a wooded area close to Ridge Road, has been described by local authorities as the deadliest aviation disaster in Trumbull County’s recent history. What was meant to be a routine family trip ended in a tragedy that has rippled through the tight-knit community, leaving everyone struggling to come to terms with the sudden loss.
The victims, identified by the Trumbull County Coroner’s Office, included seasoned pilot Joseph Maxin, 63; his co-pilot, Timothy Blake, 55; and the Weller family—James Weller, 67, Veronica Weller, 68, John Weller, 36, and his 3-year-old daughter, Maria. The Weller family, who were beloved members of the community, had been on their way to a family reunion in Michigan, having chartered the private flight to save time and make special memories together. Tragically, what was supposed to be a joyous occasion turned into an unimaginable tragedy that has left their loved ones devastated.
Witnesses described the heartbreaking scene, reporting hearing a loud engine roar before everything went silent. Moments later, a plume of smoke rose from the treeline. Emergency crews arrived quickly, but the wreckage was already engulfed in flames by the time first responders reached the crash site. There were no survivors, and the loss has sent shockwaves through the community.
The investigation into the cause of the crash is ongoing, with the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) and the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) leading the efforts. Preliminary reports suggest that weather conditions were clear at the time of the crash, leaving many to wonder whether mechanical failure may have played a role. A full investigation could take months, but the tragedy has already left a lasting emotional impact on the people of Howland Township.
Joseph Maxin, the experienced pilot of the plane, was known in the community for his dedication to flying. With more than three decades of aviation experience, Maxin was described as methodical and disciplined, bringing a wealth of knowledge to every flight. Timothy Blake, the co-pilot, was equally well-regarded for his expertise and long-standing partnership with Maxin. Together, they were trusted by those who flew with them, and their tragic deaths have left a hole in the hearts of many who knew them.
The Weller family, who had deep roots in the Howland Township community, were pillars of the local church and were heavily involved in community outreach programs. James and Veronica Weller were known for their warmth and generosity, always giving their time to help those in need. Their son, John Weller, had recently moved back to Ohio with his wife and daughter to be closer to family. Sadly, their reunion was short-lived, and the family’s loss is deeply felt by everyone who knew them. John’s daughter, Maria, was described as the light of the family’s life. “She was always smiling, full of energy,” said a neighbor, who was clearly heartbroken by the loss. “This is just unbearable.”
As the community tries to cope with the unimaginable loss, local officials have quickly organized support for grieving residents. Grief counseling centers and hotlines have been established, and local schools, churches, and civic organizations have opened their doors to help the community come together in this difficult time. A candlelight vigil was held on Sunday evening at the Howland Community Church, where friends, family, and neighbors gathered to honor the memory of the victims. The gathering was filled with love, prayers, and shared memories, as the community mourned together and tried to make sense of the tragedy.
“It’s impossible to comprehend the depth of this loss,” said Howland Township Trustee Melissa Gordon. “We lost six incredible lives—each with a story, a purpose, a presence that mattered deeply. We are grieving together, and we will support each other in the hard days ahead.” The grief is palpable in the town, as people struggle to come to terms with the untimely passing of the Wellers, Maxin, and Blake.
The emotional outpouring of support from across the region has been overwhelming. Social media has been flooded with tributes to the victims, with friends, family, and neighbors sharing heartfelt messages and fond memories. Many have expressed disbelief at the suddenness of the tragedy and the impact it has had on the close-knit community. The Wellers were known for their kindness, and their absence has left an irreplaceable void in the lives of everyone who knew them.
The crash also raises important questions about the safety of private flights and the responsibility of those who operate small aircraft. While the investigation into the cause of the crash continues, the incident serves as a somber reminder of the risks involved in aviation, particularly for small aircraft. The tragedy has underscored the importance of rigorous safety standards and careful attention to detail in the operation of private planes.
As the community comes together to grieve, the focus is on remembering the lives of the six victims. A memorial service is planned for later this week at the Howland High School auditorium, where the public is invited to pay their respects and honor the memories of those lost. The service will provide an opportunity for the community to reflect on the lives of the Wellers, Maxin, and Blake, and to offer support to the families left behind.
Though the pain of the loss will never fully fade, the legacy of these six individuals will live on in the hearts of those who loved them. Their kindness, generosity, and the positive impact they had on the community will continue to inspire those who were fortunate enough to know them. In the wake of this heartbreaking tragedy, the people of Howland Township are united in their grief but also in their determination to support one another as they navigate the difficult days ahead.
As the investigation into the crash continues and funeral arrangements are made, the focus remains on honoring the memory of the victims and offering comfort to the grieving families. The legacy of the Wellers, Maxin, and Blake will never be forgotten, and their spirit will continue to live on in the hearts of the community.
Rest in peace, James, Veronica, John, Maria, Joseph, and Timothy. Your lives mattered, and you will never be forgotten.
