UPS Flight 2976 Tragedy Claims 15th Victim on Christmas Day

The tragic aftermath of the UPS Flight 2976 crash has claimed its 15th victim, as Alain Rodriguez Colina succumbed to injuries on Christmas Day. Colina, who worked at a scrapyard near Louisville Muhammad Ali International Airport, had been in a medically induced coma since the crash occurred on November 4, 2025. His passing highlights the devastating toll of the incident, which resulted in the deaths of 12 individuals on the ground and all three pilots aboard the aircraft.

Colina, a Cuban immigrant employed at Grade A Auto Parts & Recycling, was attending to a customer when the McDonnell Douglas MD-11F crashed into the scrapyard and a nearby semi-truck parking lot. While he managed to escape the initial wreckage, he sustained severe burns covering over 50% of his body. Despite some initial recovery, Colina’s condition deteriorated, leading to his death on December 25, 2025.

Details of the UPS Flight 2976 Crash

UPS Flight 2976 was a scheduled cargo flight traveling from Louisville to Honolulu. The McDonnell Douglas MD-11F, registered as N259UP, experienced a catastrophic failure shortly after takeoff. At approximately 17:13 local time, just after reaching V1 speed, the aircraft’s number one engine detached, igniting a fire on the left wing. This led to an uncontrollable descent, mirroring the tragic events of American Airlines Flight 191 in 1979, which involved a similar aircraft model.

The MD-11F struck a UPS Supply Chain warehouse, after which the left wing collided with fuel tanks, exacerbating the fire. The aircraft banked sharply, ultimately crashing into the scrapyard, resulting in widespread devastation. In total, 12 individuals on the ground lost their lives, and another 22 sustained injuries.

Colina’s death is a heartbreaking reminder of the human impact of this disaster. His mother and siblings reside in Louisville, while his daughter remains in Cuba. His coworkers and community have expressed deep sorrow, with many highlighting his dedication to his job and family.

Investigation and Potential Causes

The investigation into the causes of the crash is being conducted by the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB). Preliminary assessments have indicated that the aircraft may have also lost its number two engine, which could explain its inability to maintain altitude. The NTSB is expected to release a final report detailing the sequence of events that led to this tragedy, but initial comparisons to past incidents raise concerns about maintenance procedures and aircraft safety.

The devastating event serves as a stark reminder of the complexities and risks involved in aviation. As the investigation continues, families and the community seek answers and closure regarding this heartbreaking incident. The legacy of those lost, including Alain Rodriguez Colina, will remain a poignant part of this ongoing story.