In the late hours of Saturday, a quiet wooded stretch of Little Road in rural Chesterfield County became the scene of a fatal accident that claimed the life of 73-year-old John V. Mazza Jr. — also known in the community as Johnny Mazza Jr. — a respected small business owner and aviation enthusiast.
Authorities with the Chesterfield County Police Department say the accident occurred around 11:48 p.m. on October 25 in the 20300 block of Little Road, an area surrounded by uneven, wooded terrain. Emergency responders found the utility task vehicle (UTV) badly damaged after it struck a tree. Mazza, the driver, was unresponsive and despite paramedics’ swift efforts he was pronounced dead at the scene.
Police believe Mazza was the sole occupant of the vehicle at the time of the crash, and preliminary findings suggest no foul play or criminal intent was involved. The incident is currently being treated as a tragic accident that occurred while the UTV was being operated on private land. Investigators are looking into possible contributing factors such as terrain conditions, lighting, and vehicle speed to determine what might have caused the vehicle to leave its intended path and collide with the tree.
Mazza was widely known in the region not only for his longevity in business but also for his passion for flight. He was the longtime owner of Medallion Pools, a family-run pool company his father founded in 1960. Beyond that, Mazza served on the Virginia Aviation Board, the Virginia Transportation Safety Board, the Chesterfield County Airport Advisory Board, and the Dinwiddie Airport & Industrial Authority. In 2015, he was inducted into the Virginia Aviation Hall of Fame.
In the wake of his passing, the Chesterfield County Police extended condolences to Mazza’s family and friends, describing his death as a “deeply unfortunate loss” and affirming the department’s support to those grieving. They also encouraged anyone who may have additional information about the crash to reach out via 804-748-1521. Community reaction has been one of genuine sorrow — many neighbors remember Mazza as a kind-hearted, respected figure whose presence extended beyond business and into aviation and civic service.
Officials also used the incident as a reminder to the community about UTV safety, especially during nighttime and on challenging terrain. While such vehicles are increasingly common in recreation and work settings in rural areas, they carry significant risks when operated after dark or on uneven ground. The department stressed wearing appropriate safety gear, avoiding excessive speed, and steering clear of poorly lit or unfamiliar terrain.
Though the crash appears to be an isolated, single-vehicle event with no public threat, its message resonates: even experienced drivers and community leaders can fall victim to the unexpected hazards of off-road terrain. For Mazza’s family, friends, colleagues, and the broader Chesterfield County community, the loss is sobering — and serves as a reminder of how quickly a routine outing can turn tragic.
