A veteran flight instructor reported oil on his windshield before his plane struck power lines and crashed near Brownsboro, Texas, killing him and his wife as they traveled to visit family.
The National Transportation Safety Board, which is leading the investigation, said in a statement sent to NTD News that preliminary information indicates the pilot “declared an emergency due to oil on the windshield and crashed into power lines after attempting to divert to Brownsboro.” The NTSB said the plane was a Beechcraft Bonanza BE36, which is a six seat single engine plane.
An investigator arrived on Friday to document the scene, collect avionics data for analysis, and interview witnesses. The wreckage was later moved to a secure facility for further examination.
“Ron and Barbara were a gift to our church,” the post read. “Their kindness, faith, and love for others touched so many lives.” Memorial details will be announced later, the church said.
Congregants shared dozens of comments mourning the couple. “Anyone who knew them have been leveled in shock and heartbroken,” one wrote. “We’re left with deep holes and incredible examples of what it means to be wonderful Christians and amazing human beings.”
The Florida Aviation Network said in statement sent to NTD News: “It is with deep sadness that it has been reported that Ron Timmermans (RJT) has Gone West on February 11, 2026. Ron and his wife Barbara perished in an aircraft accident in east Texas.”
A spokesperson for the organization confirmed to NTD News that Timmermans owned the aircraft involved in the crash, and that his wife is Barbara Zimmer. The spokesperson could not confirm who was on board during the accident.
The Orlando-based network described Timmermans as a longtime volunteer who joined the organization in 2017, hosting interviews with aviation professionals during Sun ’n Fun in Lakeland, Florida, and conducting interviews at EAA AirVenture, the U.S. Sport Aviation Expo, and other events nationwide.
A spokesperson for the Henderson County Sheriff’s Office did not respond to a request for comment from NTD News prior to publication.
Timmermans earned an architecture degree from Iowa State University in 1972 and worked in the field for more than 40 years before devoting himself fully to aviation. Through his company, AileRon T, LLC, he provided thousands of hours of dual flight instruction and taught across Florida from Miami to Tampa.
Before relocating to Florida, he lived in North Texas and provided instruction in the Dallas–Fort Worth area.