On the evening of May 31, 2014, what began as an ordinary departure from Hanscom Field in Bedford, Massachusetts, turned into a tragedy that would reverberate across communities, industries, and families. A Gulfstream IV business jet carrying seven people failed to lift off the runway, overran the pavement, and ignited in a fiery crash. All seven passengers and crew members lost their lives, including well-known philanthropist and media co-owner Lewis Katz.
The incident not only shook the aviation community but also sent ripples of grief through neighborhoods, professional circles, and philanthropic networks tied to the passengers. In the days and years that followed, it became a case study for aviation safety, a moment of collective mourning, and a reminder of the fragility of life.
What Happened at Hanscom Field
Hanscom Field, located about 20 miles northwest of Boston, is widely used for private and corporate aviation. On that late spring evening in 2014, the Gulfstream IV was cleared for departure. The weather was calm, the runway dry, and visibility was good—conditions that ordinarily pose no challenge to modern aircraft.
But as the jet accelerated for takeoff, something was wrong. Instead of lifting gracefully into the night sky, the aircraft barreled down the runway and continued past its endpoint. Within moments, it struck an embankment and burst into flames. Eyewitnesses described a sudden fireball, visible for miles, as emergency responders rushed to the site.
Despite the rapid arrival of first responders, the intensity of the fire left no chance of survival. By the time the flames were brought under control, the heartbreaking reality was clear: all seven souls on board were gone.
The NTSB Investigation
The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) quickly deployed a team of investigators. Their mission was not only to determine the cause of the accident but also to extract lessons that could improve aviation safety worldwide.
Early evidence pointed toward the possibility that the gust lock system, which secures control surfaces when an aircraft is parked, had not been disengaged before takeoff. If left on, the device prevents movement of the elevators—essential surfaces that allow a plane to climb.
This revelation raised urgent questions:
Was this a mechanical oversight, a procedural failure, or both?
How could such an experienced flight crew miss such a crucial step?
Did the aircraft’s design provide sufficient safeguards to prevent this type of error?
The investigation unfolded meticulously. Experts examined black box data, interviewed maintenance staff, analyzed checklists, and reconstructed the crew’s actions. The process was long, but its purpose was clear: to ensure the lessons from Hanscom would reduce the chances of future tragedies.
The Lives We Lost
While aviation experts focused on mechanics and procedures, families and communities grieved the loss of seven remarkable people.
Lewis Katz (72) – A respected businessman, civic leader, and philanthropist, Katz rose from modest beginnings in Camden, New Jersey. He built a diverse business portfolio—ranging from billboards to sports team ownership—while dedicating much of his fortune to charitable work. In 2014, he became co-owner of The Philadelphia Inquirer, motivated by his belief in strong local journalism. Friends remembered him as generous, witty, and deeply loyal.
Anne Leeds (74) – A retired preschool teacher and a neighbor of Katz in Longport, New Jersey, she was invited to join the trip at the last moment. Described as warm and compassionate, Leeds devoted her life to children and community. Her passing was mourned widely in her hometown.
Marcella Dalsey (59) – Katz’s longtime partner and executive director of the Drew A. Katz Foundation, named in honor of his late son. Dalsey played a central role in advancing education and community initiatives, touching countless lives through her dedication.
Susan Asbell (68) – A family friend of Katz with strong ties to philanthropic and political circles in New Jersey. She was remembered for her generosity and active role in supporting civic projects.
James McDowell (61) – The aircraft’s captain, with decades of experience. Colleagues described him as a consummate professional dedicated to the highest standards of aviation.
Bailey Brown (27) – The co-pilot, early in his career but already recognized for his promise and skill. His colleagues recalled his passion for flying and his dedication to growth in the field.
Nathaniel “Nate” Griffith (45) – The flight attendant, whose career centered on passenger care and safety. Friends described him as attentive, caring, and professional.
Each of these individuals left behind families, friends, and colleagues who continue to honor their memory.
Communities in Mourning
In the aftermath of the crash, memorial services and vigils were held across New Jersey, Pennsylvania, and Massachusetts. The grief was palpable: neighbors left flowers on doorsteps, newspapers published heartfelt tributes, and community leaders spoke of the void left behind.
For the staff of The Philadelphia Inquirer, the loss was particularly painful. Just a day before the crash, Katz had finalized plans to assume full ownership of the paper, intending to invest in its future. His sudden passing left colleagues stunned and uncertain about the road ahead.
Philadelphia’s then-Mayor Michael Nutter called Katz “a giant in generosity and civic spirit,” words echoed by governors, senators, and community leaders.
A Narrow Escape and Reflections on Fate
Former Pennsylvania Governor Ed Rendell revealed afterward that he had been invited to join Katz on the trip but declined due to other commitments. The revelation underscored how random fate can appear, and it left Rendell deeply shaken. In interviews, he reflected on the fragility of life and the unpredictability of circumstances that shape our paths.
His account became part of the broader public conversation, reminding many that life’s course can shift in an instant.
Aviation Safety Lessons
The Hanscom tragedy reignited discussions about aviation safety, particularly in the realm of private and corporate flights.
While commercial airlines are subject to strict oversight, the private aviation sector often operates under more flexible rules. The crash highlighted the importance of:
Rigorous adherence to checklists – Every pre-flight step matters, no matter how routine.
Design safeguards – Aircraft systems must anticipate and prevent human error where possible.
Training and culture – Flight crews need both technical skill and an uncompromising safety culture.
The NTSB’s investigation ultimately concluded that the gust lock system had not been disengaged, making takeoff impossible. This reinforced the value of pre-flight diligence and design improvements to prevent similar oversights.
Broader Implications
Beyond technical lessons, the tragedy carried broader implications for society. Katz’s death deprived communities of a major philanthropic force. Schools, health organizations, and cultural institutions that had benefited from his generosity faced the challenge of sustaining projects without his direct support.
At the same time, the crash reminded the public of the value of strong institutions—whether in journalism, education, or aviation safety—that persist beyond individuals. Katz’s commitment to reinvigorating The Philadelphia Inquirer symbolized the importance of local news at a time when many outlets were struggling. His loss was felt not only as a personal absence but as a setback to civic life.
Honoring the Legacy
The families of those lost chose to honor their loved ones through action. Foundations received donations, scholarships were established, and community projects were dedicated in memory of the victims.
Lewis Katz’s foundation continued its work in education and health. The Leeds family contributed to local schools in Anne’s honor. The aviation community recognized the professionalism of Captain McDowell, First Officer Brown, and Flight Attendant Griffith with tributes at industry gatherings.
These acts of remembrance ensured that their names would not be defined solely by tragedy but by the lasting contributions they made during their lifetimes.
Conclusion: Loss, Legacy, and Learning
The Hanscom Field accident of May 31, 2014, was a heartbreaking event that claimed seven lives far too soon. It left families grieving, communities mourning, and industries reflecting. Yet, amid the sorrow, it also offered lessons—about the importance of aviation safety, the unpredictability of life, and the enduring value of service to others.
For aviation, it underscored the critical need for vigilance and continual improvement. For communities, it was a reminder of how much one person’s generosity and leadership can shape countless lives. And for families, it was a call to honor legacies through continued acts of kindness, service, and remembrance.
More than a decade later, the echoes of that night at Hanscom Field continue to resonate. The seven lives lost are remembered not for the circumstances of their passing but for the richness of their contributions, the strength of their character, and the inspiration they leave behind.