Local News
Albuquerque pilot Lee Truitt killed in UPS plane crash in Louisville
LOUISVILLE, KENTUCKY — One of the pilots killed in Tuesday’s devastating UPS Flight 2976 crash near Louisville has been identified as First Officer Lee Truitt, a native of Albuquerque, New Mexico, the company confirmed Wednesday.
According to UPS, the aircraft was operated by Captain Richard Wartenberg, First Officer Lee Truitt, and International Relief Captain Dana Diamond.
All three crew members tragically lost their lives when the McDonnell Douglas MD-11 cargo jet crashed shortly after takeoff from Louisville Muhammad Ali International Airport.
Former colleagues have confirmed that Truitt, a graduate of the University of New Mexico (UNM), previously worked at Cutter Aviation and Bode Aviation before joining UPS.
Known for his professionalism, humility, and passion for aviation, Truitt was widely admired within New Mexico’s aviation community.
The crash, which occurred Tuesday evening, claimed twelve lives in total, including a young child and the three UPS flight crew members.
UPS stated it is fully cooperating with the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) and local authorities as the investigation continues.
According to NTSB member Todd Inman, preliminary findings indicate that the aircraft had been 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 crashed.
“The plane was cleared for departure when a significant fire developed in the left wing area, and an engine separated from the aircraft,” Inman said. “Those events are now a primary focus of our investigation.”
Truitt, who served as First Officer on Flight 2976, was remembered by his former employer, Bode Aviation, in a heartfelt statement reflecting the profound loss felt by those who knew him best:
“Lee Truitt will forever hold a special place in our hearts.
Lee was never simply a former employee—he was a cherished friend, a trusted colleague, and a model of what it means to be a true professional aviator. From his earliest days with our organization, Lee demonstrated an unwavering commitment to excellence, earning the respect and admiration of everyone he worked alongside.
Through diligence, humility, and an unrelenting pursuit of mastery, Lee rose to serve as a Senior Flight Instructor and Charter Pilot, where his discipline, composure, and integrity became the standard by which others measured themselves. His dedication to his craft was matched only by his generosity of spirit—he continually returned to mentor our students and instructors, guiding the next generation of aviators with patience, wisdom, and care.
It was always a genuine pleasure to see Lee walk through our doors, his presence a reminder of the very best qualities in our profession—humility, professionalism, and quiet excellence.
His loss has left a profound void, and many within our company—including myself—are deeply grieving this tragedy.
We hope that everyone will keep Lee’s young family in their thoughts and prayers during this difficult time. Though his passing has broken our hearts, the legacy of his kindness, mentorship, and dedication will endure. Lee Truitt will be missed beyond words—and he will forever remain a part of our family.”
As investigators continue to analyze flight data and wreckage, UPS expressed its condolences to the victims’ families, vowing to support the ongoing investigation.
“We are heartbroken by the loss of our colleagues and friends,” UPS said in a statement. “Our deepest sympathies are with their families and everyone affected by this tragedy.”
The NTSB continues to lead the investigation into the cause of the crash, one of the deadliest aviation incidents in recent Kentucky history.
Local News
Indiana Police Officer Ronnell Johnson Fatally Shot While Handling Personal Firearm at Marion Health Hospital
Authorities in Indiana are investigating the fatal shooting of a Marion Health Police Officer who died early Sunday morning after an accidental firearm discharge inside Marion Health Hospital in Grant County.
According to the Indiana State Police, the incident occurred at approximately 6:00 a.m. on Sunday, November 30, 2025, when 25-year-old Officer Ronnell J. Johnson, of Marion, Indiana, was discovered with an apparent gunshot wound. Officer Johnson was on duty at the time of the incident.
Initial findings from the ongoing investigation indicate that Officer Johnson was handling a personally-owned, non-department-issued handgun when the firearm discharged, striking him.
Details surrounding how the weapon was being handled and the moments leading up to the injury have not yet been fully clarified.
Emergency personnel from multiple agencies—including the Indiana State Police, Grant County Sheriff’s Office, Marion City Police Department, and Marion Health Police Department—responded immediately.
Hospital medical staff initiated life-saving measures; however, despite their efforts, Officer Johnson succumbed to his injuries.
He was later pronounced deceased by the Grant County Coroner’s Office.
Family notification has been completed, and an autopsy is scheduled as part of the ongoing investigation.
Officials emphasize that no additional details will be released until further evidence is reviewed.
Indiana State Police Detectives are leading the investigation at the request of the Marion City Police Department.
Multiple agencies assisted at the scene, including the Indiana State Police Peru Post and medical personnel from Marion Health Hospital.
The circumstances remain under active review.