UPDATE: A 15th victim of the tragic UPS plane crash has died, officials confirmed on Christmas Day. Alain Rodriguez Colina, aged 50, succumbed to his injuries after more than six weeks of battling for his life in the hospital, according to Louisville Mayor Craig Greenberg. This devastating news adds another layer of grief to a community still reeling from the disaster that occurred on November 4, 2023, near Muhammad Ali International Airport.
Colina, who worked for Grade A Recycling, was reported to be improving in recent days, making his unexpected death all the more shocking. Sean Garber, the company’s CEO, expressed disbelief, stating, “It did come as a surprise.” He elaborated that initial reports were grim, but Colina had shown signs of recovery, including undergoing skin grafts.
On that fateful day, a UPS cargo jet crashed at the company’s facility, resulting in the deaths of 14 others—four employees and eight customers. Colina, a Cuban immigrant who relocated to Louisville with his family, joined Grade A in March 2023 and quickly advanced to the role of commodities buyer.
The emotional toll of this tragedy is profound. Garber recounted a conversation with Colina’s 20-year-old nephew, who now faces the heart-wrenching reality of associating Christmas with the loss of his uncle. “Christmas will forever be linked to his death,” Garber lamented.
In remembrance of the victims, a temporary fence outside the Grade A facility is adorned with 11 wreaths, each symbolizing a life lost. “Everyone of us was hoping we wouldn’t have had to add a 12th,” Garber said, reflecting on the heavy burden of the loss.
The NTSB has reported that 23 people were injured in the crash. Garber is advocating for justice and accountability for the families affected. He confirmed that there are currently no other known victims still hospitalized, as the University of Louisville Health facility has not shared updates since November 6 at the families’ requests.
As investigations continue, the community is left to grapple with the aftermath of this avoidable tragedy. Grade A Recycling has established a fund to support the families of the victims, underscoring the urgent need for healing and justice in the wake of this catastrophic event.
Stay tuned for more updates as this story develops.