Attorney and pilot, business leader among those killed in plane crash
Six victims of a plane crash in Howland, Ohio, have been identified, including prominent figures James Weller and pilot Joseph Maxin. The twin-engine Cessna 441 Conquest crashed shortly after takeoff from Youngstown-Warren Regional Airport, leading to an investigation by the National Transportation Safety Board. Weller, who served as president and CEO of Liberty Steel Industries, was a significant presence in the Mahoning Valley and the Sharon Speedway racing community. Maxin, a veteran pilot and lead flight instructor at Youngstown State University, played a key role in launching a new flight school. Community leaders expressed their sorrow, emphasizing the Weller family's contributions to local business and racing.
The Weller family, known for their racing achievements, left a lasting legacy in the area. Maxin's involvement with the Western Reserve Port Authority highlighted his commitment to aviation education. This tragedy has left the Mahoning Valley community mourning the loss of influential figures.