LOUISVILLE, Ky. — Authorities have confirmed the identities of the three UPS flight crew members who tragically lost their lives in the devastating crash of UPS Flight 2976 near Louisville Muhammad Ali International Airport on Tuesday evening, November 4, 2025. The victims have been identified as Captain Richard Wartenberg, Relief Captain Dana Diamond, and First Officer Lee Truitt of Albuquerque. All three were highly experienced pilots and beloved members of the UPS aviation family.

In a statement released Thursday, UPS expressed its profound grief over the loss, saying, “We are deeply saddened by the tragic loss of our colleagues. Our hearts are with their families, friends, and the entire UPS community during this difficult time.” The McDonnell Douglas MD-11 cargo aircraft had taken off from Louisville around 5:15 p.m. bound for Honolulu when it experienced a catastrophic failure and crashed in an industrial area near Grade Lane and Fern Valley Road. The aircraft exploded upon impact, setting multiple buildings and vehicles ablaze.

According to the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), early evidence indicates that the plane’s left engine detached from the wing during takeoff, causing an uncontrollable descent. Dashcam footage captured the terrifying moment the plane plunged from the sky and erupted into a fireball, sending thick black smoke over the city. Emergency crews responded within minutes, working through the night to extinguish flames and locate survivors.

Officials confirmed at least 12 fatalities, including a child, while 15 others were injured and 16 remain unaccounted for. Kentucky Governor Andy Beshear described the disaster as “catastrophic,” warning that the number of victims could rise as recovery efforts continue. “Please pray for the pilots, the families, and the first responders,” Beshear urged. A Family Reunification Center was established at 2911 Taylor Blvd to assist those searching for loved ones.

Authorities have also warned families about scammers posing as investigators and demanding payment for information. The Louisville Metro Police Department (LMPD) stressed that no legitimate agency will ever request money for updates and urged anyone contacted by such individuals to call (502) 574-LMPD (5673) immediately.

UPS has pledged full cooperation with the ongoing federal investigation and continues to provide support to the families of the victims. “This is a heartbreaking loss for our entire company,” the statement read. “We will honor their memory by standing beside their loved ones and the community they served.”