LOUISVILLE, Ky. — One of the three UPS crew members killed in Tuesday’s catastrophic UPS Flight 2976 crash near Louisville Muhammad Ali International Airport has been identified as First Officer Lee Truitt, a native of Albuquerque, New Mexico, the company confirmed Wednesday. The ill-fated McDonnell Douglas MD-11 cargo jet went down shortly after takeoff, killing all three pilots on board and several people on the ground.
According to UPS, the flight was operated by Captain Richard Wartenberg, First Officer Lee Truitt, and International Relief Captain Dana Diamond. All three crew members perished when the aircraft, en route to Honolulu, crashed into an industrial area shortly after 5:00 p.m. on November 4. Former colleagues of Truitt described him as a deeply respected professional, known for his humility, passion, and mentorship within New Mexico’s aviation community.
Truitt, a University of New Mexico graduate, began his career at Cutter Aviation and later joined Bode Aviation, where he served as a Senior Flight Instructor and Charter Pilot before joining UPS. Friends and colleagues say he inspired countless young aviators with his calm leadership and dedication to excellence. “Lee was never simply a former employee—he was a cherished friend, a trusted colleague, and a model of professionalism,” Bode Aviation said in a heartfelt statement. “His loss has left a profound void, and many within our company are deeply grieving this tragedy.”
The crash claimed twelve lives in total, including a child and the three UPS flight crew members. Preliminary findings from the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) indicate that the plane was cleared for takeoff when a large fire developed in the left wing, followed by the detachment of one of its engines, moments before the aircraft lost control and plunged to the ground. “Those events are now a primary focus of our investigation,” said NTSB member Todd Inman.
Emergency crews worked through the night, extinguishing fires and searching the debris field spread across several blocks. The crash ignited multiple buildings and vehicles, sending plumes of black smoke over Louisville. Officials say at least 15 others were injured and several remain unaccounted for. Kentucky Governor Andy Beshear described the incident as one of the worst aviation disasters in state history, urging residents to pray for the victims and their families.
UPS expressed its condolences and pledged cooperation with federal investigators. “We are heartbroken by the loss of our colleagues and friends,” the company said in a statement. “Our deepest sympathies are with their families and everyone affected by this tragedy.” The NTSB continues to lead the investigation as recovery efforts and community mourning continue in both Kentucky and New Mexico.
