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
At least two killed, multiple trapped after explosion at Silver Lake Nursing Home in Bristol
BRISTOL, Pa. (Bucks County) — Emergency crews are responding to a major incident at the Silver Lake Nursing Home following a reported gas explosion that caused a partial building collapse.
The incident occurred at approximately 905 Tower Road, where a second alarm and a Level 2 Mass Casualty Incident (MCI) response were requested as conditions escalated.
First-arriving units reported significant structural damage to the facility, prompting an immediate search-and-rescue operation for residents and staff.
Authorities on scene indicated that approximately 15 patients were initially accounted for outside the building, while multiple others remain unaccounted for.
Rescue teams have reported numerous individuals trapped beneath debris on the second floor, as well as additional victims trapped in the basement area.
At least two fatalities has been reported in the basement, according to early emergency communications.
As the situation developed, a third alarm was transmitted, bringing in substantial mutual aid resources, including out-of-county fire, rescue, and emergency medical units. A medical helicopter has been placed on standby in anticipation of critical patient transport.
Emergency personnel continue to conduct systematic searches of the damaged structure while assessing stability concerns and coordinating patient triage.
The extent of injuries and the total number of victims have not yet been confirmed.
Road closures are in effect in the surrounding area as emergency operations continue. Officials have advised the public to avoid the scene to allow responders unobstructed access.
This remains a rapidly evolving situation.
Authorities are expected to release additional information as more details are confirmed.