The Bow Wow Bungalow community and residents across Burbank and beyond are mourning the tragic loss of Paul Berkovitz, 69, his son Matthew J. Berkovitz, 36, and their cherished dog Brody, who were all killed in a devastating small plane crash in a Simi Valley neighborhood over the weekend.
The crash occurred Saturday afternoon in the 200 block of High Meadow Street, in the quiet Wood Ranch area of Simi Valley. According to the Ventura County Medical Examiner’s Office, both men died of multiple blunt force injuries sustained during the crash. Their faithful canine companion, Brody, who had accompanied Paul on many flights, also perished in the crash.
Authorities and emergency personnel responded swiftly to the scene, and the Berkovitz family issued a statement thanking first responders, including the Ventura County Fire Department and Simi Valley Police Department, for their courageous and rapid efforts in the face of tragedy.
“Paul was a devoted father and husband, a passionate pilot, and a lifelong animal lover,” the family shared. “Brody, his loyal companion, was by his side on many of his flights. Matt shared his father’s passion for aviation, and the time they spent flying together brought them both great joy.”
Paul Berkovitz was more than just a pilot. From 2018 to 2021, he was the heart and soul behind Bow Wow Bungalow, a pet care facility in Burbank known for its compassion, professionalism, and the love it extended to every animal that walked through its doors. Under Paul’s leadership, Bow Wow Bungalow flourished—not just as a business, but as a trusted, caring community for pets and their owners. His love for animals was genuine and deep, influencing every corner of the organization.
Even after he stepped away from the business, Paul’s legacy continued. He remained active in his love for aviation and animals, volunteering with Pilots N Paws, a nonprofit organization that transports rescue dogs to forever homes across the country. Through his work with this organization, Paul gave countless animals a second chance at life—one flight at a time.
Matthew, who lived in Thousand Oaks, shared his father’s love for flying. Described by friends as bright, compassionate, and full of life, Matthew found peace and connection in the skies with his father. Their shared flights were more than hobbies; they were moments of bonding, joy, and purpose.
This tragedy has left an indelible void in the hearts of those who knew them. At Bow Wow Bungalow, the loss of Paul is deeply felt by both past and present staff, clients, and the extended animal-loving community. He shaped the facility’s mission with his kindness, commitment, and belief in the healing power of the human-animal bond.
“Paul, Matthew, and Brody will always hold a special place in the story of Bow Wow Bungalow and in the hearts of everyone who knew them,” a spokesperson from the facility said. “We are heartbroken by their passing and extend our deepest sympathies to the Berkovitz family and their loved ones.”
The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) is currently investigating the cause of the crash. The family has requested privacy during this difficult time and has stated that they will not be making further public comments.
As the community reflects on the lives of Paul and Matthew Berkovitz and sweet Brody, there is comfort in remembering the compassion, love, and dedication they embodied—on the ground, in the air, and in the hearts of those who were lucky enough to know them.