Two Rio Vista Residents Killed in Midair Collision at Arizona Airport Identified.
Authorities have identified the two victims who tragically lost their lives in a midair collision between two small planes at Marana Regional Airport, located on the outskirts of Tucson, Arizona, on February 19, 2025.
Crash Details: The Tragic Midair Collision
The collision involved a single-engine Lancair 360 MK II, which was registered to Michael Reinath, 70, of Rio Vista, California, and his passenger, Linda Gifford, 76, also from Rio Vista. The crash occurred when the Lancair, with Reinath and Gifford aboard, hit the ground near a runway and burst into flames.
According to reports, each of the two planes involved in the collision had two people aboard. While the second plane was able to land safely, the Lancair crashed and caught fire. Dramatic video footage, provided by the Town of Marana, captured the moment of impact, showing the Lancair descending before bursting into flames.
Victims Identified: Michael Reinath and Linda Gifford
Michael Reinath and Linda Gifford, both residents of Rio Vista, California, have been confirmed as the victims. The news of their deaths has left the local community shaken. Friends, family, and residents of Rio Vista are mourning the loss of the two individuals who were known in the area.
Reinath, an experienced pilot, was flying the Lancair when the crash occurred. Gifford, his passenger, was tragically killed in the incident as well. The cause of the crash is still under investigation by federal authorities.
Context: Recent Aviation Accidents
This collision is part of a series of tragic aviation incidents that have raised concerns about air safety in the U.S. In the days leading up to this crash, another fatal accident occurred in Scottsdale, Arizona, involving a private jet owned by Mötley Crüe singer Vince Neil. One of the pilots was killed when the plane veered off the runway and collided with a business jet.
In late January 2025, the U.S. experienced its deadliest aviation disaster since 2001 when a midair collision in Washington, D.C. between an American Airlines passenger jet and a U.S. Army helicopter resulted in the deaths of 67 people. Just days later, on January 31, a medical transport jet crashed in Philadelphia, killing all six people aboard, including a child and her mother.
About Rio Vista, California
Rio Vista, located in Solano County, is a small town situated about 50 miles south of Sacramento, along the scenic Sacramento River Delta. Known for its tight-knit community and riverfront views, Rio Vista is now mourning the loss of two of its residents in this tragic aviation accident.
Investigation Ongoing
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) is currently investigating the cause of the midair collision. Preliminary reports suggest that the crash occurred in midair, but further details will be released as the investigation continues.
Key Details:
- Victims: Michael Reinath (70) and Linda Gifford (76), residents of Rio Vista, California.
- Crash Location: Marana Regional Airport, Tucson, Arizona.
- Date of Incident: February 19, 2025.
- Cause of Crash: Under investigation by the FAA.
