A tragic plane crash in Ohio has claimed the lives of prominent businessman James “Jim” Weller, his wife, son, and daughter-in-law. The family was traveling to Bozeman, Montana, for a vacation when their private jet crashed shortly after takeoff from Youngstown-Warren Regional Airport, according to The New York Post.
The crash occurred just minutes after liftoff at 6:53 a.m. on Sunday, June 30, 2025, coming down less than two miles from the runway in a wooded residential area of Howland Township.
Victims Identified
The victims include:
- Jim Weller, 67 – owner of Liberty Steel Industries
- Veronica Weller, 68 – his wife
- John Weller, 36 – their son
- Maria Weller, 34 – John’s wife
- Joseph Maxin, 63 – the pilot, a seasoned aviator and former assistant prosecutor
- Timothy Blake, 55 – co-pilot
There were no survivors. First responders said the aircraft crashed into a densely wooded backyard, complicating rescue efforts.
Who Was Jim Weller?
Jim Weller was a well-known figure in northeast Ohio’s business and racing communities. His father founded Liberty Steel in 1965, and under Jim’s leadership, it became a key regional supplier.
Weller was also deeply involved in Sharon Speedway’s Big Block Modified racing circuit, winning 36 races and securing two championship titles. The speedway released a statement calling his death “a heartbreaking loss,” noting his father, Jim Weller Sr., co-owned the track from 2002 to 2024.
Investigation Underway
The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) and the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) are investigating the cause of the crash. A preliminary report is expected later in July.
Howland Fire Chief Raymond Pace described it as the deadliest crash the area has seen. Aviation expert Mike Hillman told News 19:
“These were the best of the best. I wish we could turn back time and take them to breakfast instead.”
Community in Mourning
The loss has devastated the local community, where the Weller family was known for their humility, generosity, and strong values. Friends and neighbors are remembering them as kind-hearted people who quietly helped others despite their success.
FAQs
Q1: Who was James ‘Jim’ Weller?
A1: A respected Ohio steel magnate, Jim Weller owned Liberty Steel Industries, a family business started in 1965. He was also a celebrated local race car driver.
Q2: What caused the crash?
A2: The cause is still unknown. Investigators from the NTSB and FAA are currently reviewing evidence, with a preliminary report expected in July.
Q3: Were there any survivors?
A3: No. All six individuals onboard the flight died in the crash.
Q4: Where exactly did the crash happen?
A4: The plane went down in a wooded backyard in Howland Township, Ohio, just two miles from Youngstown-Warren Regional Airport.
