Community Mourns Flight Paramedic Nicholas Mancuso After Tragic Crash

A plane crash on the Navajo Nation claimed the lives of four individuals, including flight paramedic Nicholas Mancuso, on August 5, 2023. The incident involved a medical transport aircraft operated by CSI Aviation, based in Albuquerque, New Mexico. The crash occurred near the Chinle Airport, approximately 200 miles northeast of Flagstaff, Arizona. Those on board included two medical personnel en route to pick up a patient and two pilots.

Loved ones are now sharing their memories of Mancuso, who was 37 years old and known for his dedication to healthcare. In an exclusive interview, Lori Bigelow, a close friend, described Mancuso as a “true community hero.” She initiated a GoFundMe campaign to support his wife, Ashley Mancuso, and their four-year-old daughter, Lennyn. The campaign has already raised over $36,000, demonstrating the strong support from the community.

Bigelow recounted the moment she learned of the crash, revealing the shock and disbelief she felt as she realized Mancuso was involved. “I looked at my husband, who works in healthcare as well, and asked him if there had been a plane crash today. When he confirmed it, I dropped my phone. I just knew,” she said.

The emotional impact of the tragedy has been profound among Mancuso’s friends and colleagues. Clay Tabb, another healthcare professional, expressed his disbelief upon hearing the news. “I just kind of froze,” Tabb said. “After 13 years in this career, you think you’re prepared for loss, but this one hit me really hard.”

Mancuso’s friends described him as a knowledgeable and committed medic, affectionately nicknamed “Nickipidea” for his expertise. He recently celebrated his nine-year wedding anniversary with Ashley, who, according to Tabb, was the center of his life. “The only thing that could come between them was their little girl,” he added.

Lennyn, who is often referred to as Lenny, was everything to Mancuso. Bigelow emphasized the importance of supporting Lenny in the aftermath of this tragedy. “Everything we’re doing right now is for Lenny because that’s what he wanted,” she stated.

In addition to being a devoted father and husband, Mancuso also took on the responsibility of caring for his elderly mother, Lili. Friends noted that he balanced his caregiving duties for both his parents, which was a significant burden. “His mom lives about 45 minutes from Ashley, and that’s going to be a huge burden on her now,” Bigelow said.

The community’s response to the tragedy has been overwhelming. Bigelow expressed her gratitude, saying, “I have no words. It just goes to show he’s a true community hero.”

As investigators from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) continue to probe the circumstances surrounding the crash, the memories and legacy of Nicholas Mancuso will remain alive in the hearts of those who knew him. The outpouring of support for his family reflects the deep impact he had on his community and those he served.