Death Toll from UPS Cargo Plane Catastrophe in Louisville Escalates to 15

Alain Rodriguez Colina, gravely injured in the crash near Louisville, Kentucky, several weeks ago, has succumbed to his wounds, as was announced on Thursday.

According to Louisville's Mayor, Craig Greenberg, Colina did not survive the devastating injuries and died on Christmas Day.

Tragic Accident During Takeoff

On November 4th, a cargo plane operated by UPS, identified as Flight 2976, destined for Hawaii, crashed shortly after lifting off from the Louisville International Airport, a major hub for UPS cargo operations.

Fatalities and Impact

The aircraft barely became airborne before it crashed, impacting multiple businesses in the vicinity. The disaster claimed the lives of all three crew members on board and 12 additional individuals on the ground, including Colina. Almost two dozen others sustained injuries.

Cargo and Investigation Details

The ill-fated flight was transporting around 20,000 parcels and 38,000 gallons of fuel. As per the National Transportation Safety Board, the plane only reached an altitude of 30 feet, barely clearing the perimeter fence. Video and photographic evidence indicated components detaching from the wing during ascent. Cracks were identified in the engine mount on the left wing.

Debris was scattered over a half-mile radius, according to Todd Inman, an official from NTSB, who briefed reporters the following day. He also mentioned that alarms had sounded in the cockpit moments before the crash.

Ongoing Investigation

The NTSB, which is spearheading the investigation, indicated it might take up to two years to conclude its final report. The investigation aims to uncover the factors that led to such a catastrophic event.