Death Toll Rises to 15 in Kentucky UPS MD-11 Cargo Plane Crash
On 4 November 2025, UPS Flight 2976, an MD-11 cargo plane, crashed shortly after takeoff from Louisville Muhammad Ali International Airport, striking nearby businesses. The left engine detached during departure, causing the crash that killed three UPS pilots and several ground victims.
Among those on the ground who died were employees and customers at Grade A Auto Parts & Recycling, located near the airport. The death toll reached 15 following the passing of Alain Rodriguez Colina, a ground worker at Grade A, who died on Christmas from injuries sustained in the incident. He was the fourth employee of Grade A to die.
The National Transportation Safety Board investigation revealed cracks at the engine-wing attachment, prompting the Federal Aviation Administration to ground all MD-11 aircraft four days after the crash.
Multiple lawsuits have been filed against UPS and engine manufacturer General Electric, alleging maintenance and safety negligence. Both companies deny any wrongdoing but state that safety remains a priority.
Kentucky Governor Andy Beshear and Louisville Mayor Craig Greenberg confirmed Rodriguez's death and called for prayers for the victims' families.
