Paul and Matthew Berkovitz die in fatal Simi Valley plane crash

Paul and Matthew Berkovitz die in fatal Simi Valley plane crash

Fatal Simi Valley plane crash death of Paul and Matthew Berkovitz – Obituary

A tragic plane crash in a residential area of Simi Valley, California, claimed the lives of Paul Berkovitz, 69, and his 36-year-old son, Matthew Berkovitz. The Ventura County Medical Examiner confirmed both deaths were the result of multiple blunt force injuries and classified the incident as accidental.

The crash occurred at approximately 2:10 p.m. when their small aircraft, a Van RV-10, went down in the 200 block of High Meadow Street near Wood Ranch Parkway, striking two homes. Officials said the plane had departed from William J. Fox Airfield in Lancaster and was en route to Camarillo Airport at the time of the crash.

Both houses involved were damaged by fire and structural impact. One home was red-tagged, meaning it was unsafe to enter, while the other was yellow-tagged. Despite the destruction, the residents inside both homes managed to evacuate safely, and no injuries were reported on the ground.

Paul’s dog, Brody, who accompanied him frequently on flights, also died in the crash. The Berkovitz family shared a statement describing Paul as a loving father, dedicated husband, and enthusiastic pilot, while Matthew was remembered as someone who cherished flying with his father.

Witnesses in the neighborhood reported seeing the plane circling and dipping through clouds before it came down. The Federal Aviation Administration and the National Transportation Safety Board have launched an investigation, with a preliminary report expected within 30 days. However, the full findings could take up to two years to finalize.