Pilot Identified Following Fatal Arizona Plane Crash Linked to Gear Failure

Authorities in Arizona have confirmed that a landing gear malfunction caused a private jet owned by Vince Neil, lead singer of Mötley Crüe, to skid off the runway and collide with a stationary jet on Monday. The incident resulted in the tragic death of the co-pilot.

The crash occurred at Scottsdale Airport, injuring three others, including a second pilot, Neil’s girlfriend Rain Hannah, and her friend. A fifth individual in the parked aircraft declined medical assistance. Notably, Neil was not aboard the plane at the time of the accident.

According to preliminary investigations, the Learjet’s left main landing gear failed upon landing, leading to the catastrophic collision. The City of Scottsdale’s statement noted that airport personnel and emergency responders from Scottsdale Fire Station 609 arrived at the accident scene within a minute.

Video Footage Captures Dramatic Moments of the Incident

Footage shared online vividly depicts the Learjet skidding down the tarmac at high speeds before it veers off the runway into a larger, parked private jet, an Israel Aircraft Industries Gulfstream 200. The collision was so forceful that the front section of the Gulfstream lifted and shifted several feet.

Witnesses reported seeing the landing gear collapse, resulting in the Learjet sliding off the runway. Eyewitness Gordan Johnson, who has 35 years of aviation experience, recounted observing the entire event unfold. This incident marks a significant aviation mishap at Scottsdale Airport.

The co-pilot, identified as 78-year-old Joie Vitosky, was also recognized by authorities. The Scottsdale Police Department informed the public of his status, revealing that he had been certified as a flight engineer since 1978 and had been a licensed pilot since 2019, according to FAA records.

A Life Dedicated to Aviation

Vitosky hailed from Okemah, Oklahoma. He joined the Marine Corps in his twenties with aspirations of flying. His ex-wife, Ann Vitosky, shared with the Associated Press that he served as a Marine Corps aviator and flew helicopters during the Vietnam War in 1969. After more than a decade with the Marines, he transitioned into piloting Learjets.

His ex-wife expressed that Vitosky passed doing what he loved the most, stating, “His passion was flying.” Ann stated that they share three children and four grandchildren together, remembering him fondly.

The Rescue Efforts

Rescue crews acted promptly following the incident. Scottsdale Fire Captain Dave Folio conveyed that a person had been trapped inside Neil’s jet, but rescuers successfully extricated them from the wreckage. This individual was then transported to a trauma center in critical condition. Meanwhile, Hannah sustained five broken ribs, as reported by TMZ. Remarkably, both dogs onboard the aircraft survived the collision.

Images taken at the crash site reveal significant damage to the cockpit area of the Learjet, especially on its left side, which had almost entirely collapsed. A red tarp covered the wreckage, visualizing the force of the accident.

Authorities Launch Investigation

The National Transportation Safety Board is now actively investigating the crash to determine the contributing factors and enhance aviation safety measures. Meanwhile, the runway at Scottsdale Airport, which was temporarily closed due to the incident, reopened at 10:38 p.m. the same day.

Gary P. Mascaro, Scottsdale’s Aviation Director, expressed gratitude to the first responders and airport operations staff for their rapid response and professionalism in the face of tragedy. He conveyed deep condolences to all those impacted by the accident.

The plane was arriving from Austin, Texas, when the crash occurred. It is registered to Chromed in Hollywood, Inc., a company based in Wyoming that lists Vince Neil as its director, as per documents reviewed.

A Time for Reflection

This tragic event serves as a stark reminder of the dangers associated with aviation, even for experienced pilots. The investigation may provide crucial insights into technical failures and safety protocols, potentially preventing similar incidents in the future.

In the wake of this disaster, the aviation community mourns the loss of a dedicated pilot while raising awareness about the importance of aircraft maintenance and safety measures. Regular inspections and adherence to aviation regulations are essential to ensure safe flights for all passengers and crew.

The tragedy at Scottsdale Airport has left many in shock, particularly friends and family of the individuals involved. As the aviation industry reflects on this shocking incident, it emphasizes the ongoing need for vigilance in flight safety practices.

While investigations continue, our thoughts remain with the loved ones of those affected by this devastating crash.