Tragic Plane Crash Claims Lives of Award-Winning Pilot and Wife in East Texas
A devastating aircraft accident in East Texas last Wednesday claimed the lives of Ronn Timmermans and his wife, Barbara Zimmer, according to reports released Sunday. The couple, known within the aviation community for their expertise and contributions, were piloting a Beechcraft A36 when the incident occurred around 5:30 p.m. The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) confirmed the aircraft struck power lines while attempting to divert to Brownsboro, ultimately coming down short of the runway in Murchison. Authorities are currently investigating the circumstances surrounding the crash, which reportedly involved an emergency landing declared due to “oil on the windshield.”
Remembering Ronn Timmermans: A Legacy in Flight Instruction
Ronn Timmermans, a veteran flight instructor and owner of Orlando-based aviation company AileRon T LLC, was widely recognized for his dedication to the field. He received the prestigious title of National Certified Flight Instructor of the Year in 2021, an honor bestowed by a program affiliated with the Federal Aviation Administration. The Florida Aviation Network (FAN), where Timmermans served as a host and provided pro bono services since 2017, expressed profound sadness at his passing. "Ron was an important part of training hundreds of pilots over the years," FAN stated. "He’s done hundreds of hours of interviews with people in the aviation industry. He was the National Flight Instructor of the Year in 2021. He and Barbara will be greatly missed."
The Incident and Miraculous Survival of Their Pet
According to the Florida Aviation Network (FAN), an internal memo conveyed the somber news: "It is with deep sadness that it has been reported that Ronn Timmermans (RJT) has ‘Gone West’ on February 11th, 2026." Photos from the crash site depict the aircraft resting nose-down, its tail dramatically angled towards the sky. While the couple tragically perished, their small lapdog, Ziva, remarkably survived the impact. Local resident Mary Ann Shoulders recounted, "The dog was alive, and so one of the neighbors took the dog to take care of."
Investigation Underway and Data Retrieval Efforts
The NTSB has initiated a thorough investigation into the cause of the accident. Investigators have already recovered devices from the wreckage that may contain crucial data pertaining to the flight and the events leading up to the crash. The aircraft’s wreckage has been transported to a secure facility for further examination and analysis. The Federal Aviation Administration has been contacted for additional information regarding the ongoing investigation.
The Bonanza & Baron Pilot Training website highlights a poignant inspiration behind Timmermans’ career: his wife, Barbara, who motivated him to become a flight instructor. Together, the couple explored numerous destinations across the United States, Canada, and the Bahamas, sharing their passion for aviation.
