A pilot who died in the plane crash of Scottsdale credited to rescue the life of passengers – 12news.com KPNX

Scottsdale, Ariz. The National Transport Safety Council has confirmed that the remains will be transported to a Phoenix site for a further investigation.

The crash took the life of 78-year-old Joey pilot Joe Vitoski and more details about the pilot’s life and career appear, including how he is thought to be able to save his passengers with the actions he took during the crash.

Vitosky, an experienced aviator, was known for his extensive career flying private charter aircraft, including flights for famous celebrities such as Vince Neil, the lead singer of Motley Crue. Vitoski’s daughter, Janna Sherzer, talks about her father, describing him not only as a skillful pilot, but about a marine veteran, a father and great -grandfather who made a lasting impression on everyone he met.

Sherzer remembers that her father could easily recall the details of his travels, even months after the fact, calling the cities she visited and the people she met along the way.

“This is a passion. Many people work, it’s their job, but honestly I can say that he actually loved his work,” Sherzer said.

On Monday, Vitosky piloted a Learjet aircraft when landing of the equipment did not function during an attempt to land at Scotsdale Airport, local employees said. A video of the crash shows that Vitosky operates the aircraft from the track, eventually colliding with a parked asphalt aircraft. Despite the severe crash, the pilot and two passengers on board suffered serious injuries but survived.

Former United Airlines captain Carrie Grant praised Vitosky for his quick thinking and actions that probably prevent a much worse result.

“We could have a much more serious situation there if both planes ended up in fire with a ball,” Grant said.

Sherzer firmly believes that her father’s actions have saved the lives of people on board.

“I have no doubt he saved them,” she said. “People may say that you cannot maneuver an airplane when landing equipment fails, but I know no doubt that my father saved their lives.”

Vitosky’s impact on others extends far beyond his near family. Lance Graves, a longtime friend of Vince Neal, described him as a “super man” and a “professional” who always takes care a lot in his work.

“He was always good to us, really good at my children,” Graves said. “He has been a friend of Vinnie for a very long time.”

His daughter told him she was “experienced and detailed” in her work, often taking precautions that most pilots do not take to ensure the safety of the aircraft he piloted.

“They knew they were safe because they were with him,” Sherzer said.

Vitoski leaves behind four children and five grandchildren. Motley Crue, the Nile Group, expressed his condolences and announced that they were working in a way to support his family during this difficult time.

The investigation into the cause of the crash continues and the authorities are working to determine what has led to the malfunction that claims Vitosky’s life.