A small plane crashed into two occupied homes in Simi Valley, California, on Saturday, May 3, causing fires and significant damage to the properties. The incident occurred around 2 p.m. local time in the Wood Ranch neighborhood. The pilot, a passenger, and a dog onboard the aircraft died in the crash.
Details of the Incident
The single-engine aircraft, a Vans RV-10, took off from William J. Fox Airfield in Lancaster and was headed to Camarillo Airport. The plane crashed near the intersection of High Meadow Street and Wood Ranch Parkway. The impact caused fires in both homes, but residents were safely evacuated with no reported injuries.
Investigation Underway
The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) is leading the investigation into the cause of the crash. The investigation will examine the aircraft’s maintenance records, air traffic communications, and the pilot’s training. The NTSB expects to release a preliminary report within 30 days, but the full investigation could take up to two years.
Identification of Victims
The Ventura County Medical Examiner’s Office has identified the victims as 69-year-old Paul Berkovitz of Westlake Village and his 36-year-old son Matthew Berkovitz of Thousand Oaks. The family’s dog, Brody, also died in the crash.
Community Response
Neighbors reported hearing a loud crash and seeing a “big, massive fireball” and black plumes of smoke. Arman Hovakemian, a resident of one of the affected homes, witnessed the plane flying low and almost on its side before it crashed.
Next Steps
The NTSB will document the wreckage and move it to a secure facility for further evaluation. The full investigation could take up to 18 months, during which time the families displaced by the crash will work with their insurance companies to address the damage.
The community has expressed gratitude to the first responders for their swift and heroic efforts. The Berkovitz family has requested privacy during their grieving period.
