Richard Wartenberg Obituary: UPS Captain Dies in Cargo Jet Crash
Richard Wartenberg Obituary: UPS Captain Dies in Tragic Cargo Jet Crash – Louisville, KY
Louisville, KY – November 6, 2025 – The aviation and logistics community is mourning the devastating loss of Captain Richard Wartenberg, who tragically died in the UPS Flight 2976 cargo jet crash near Louisville, Kentucky. The fatal accident occurred on November 6, 2025, at approximately 3:47 PM ET, claiming the lives of all three crew members onboard.
Captain Wartenberg, along with First Officer Lee Truitt and International Relief Officer Captain Dana Diamond, was operating the MD-11 cargo aircraft en route from Louisville, KY, to Honolulu, HI, when the tragic incident occurred.
UPS Confirms the Loss of Flight 2976 Crew
In an official statement, Nando Cesarone, UPS Executive Vice President, U.S. & UPS Airlines, expressed profound grief on behalf of the company:
“Words can’t express the sorrow we feel over the heartbreaking Flight 2976 accident. It’s with great sorrow that we share the names of the UPS pilots on board—Captain Richard Wartenberg, First Officer Lee Truitt, and International Relief Officer Captain Dana Diamond. Our hearts go out to every UPSer who has been impacted and all in our Louisville community. Supporting you and ensuring you receive the care and resources you need is our priority.”
Cesarone added that this continues to be “an incredibly sad time for our entire UPS family,” echoing UPS CEO Carol Tomé’s words: “United, we are strong.”
CEO Carol Tomé’s Message to UPS Employees
On November 5, 2025, UPS CEO Carol Tomé sent an emotional message to all UPS employees, honoring the fallen crew and those affected by the crash:
“We have suffered a tragic accident involving Flight 2976. We are deeply saddened and our hearts continue to be with all who have been impacted. We will keep them in our hearts as we continue our commitment to safety, care, and community.”
Tomé also praised the Louisville UPS team for their grace and professionalism during such a difficult time and thanked the global UPS community for their messages of solidarity and support.
Investigation Underway
The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) is leading the investigation into the cause of the crash, with support from UPS, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), and local authorities. UPS has emphasized its full cooperation with investigators and stated that updates will be provided as more information becomes available.
In the immediate aftermath of the tragedy, UPS temporarily halted package sorting operations at Worldport, its main air hub in Louisville, to allow employees time to grieve and process the loss.
Family members seeking information have been encouraged to contact UPS Family Support at 1-800-631-0604.
Remembering Captain Richard Wartenberg
Captain Richard Wartenberg is being remembered as an accomplished pilot, a respected colleague, and a devoted member of the UPS aviation family. Known for his professionalism, leadership, and dedication to safety, he had a deep passion for aviation and inspired many within the industry.
Friends and fellow crew members describe Richard as calm under pressure, compassionate, and deeply proud of his work. His loss has left an indelible mark on the UPS community and the broader aviation world.
A Legacy of Dedication and Service
The passing of Captain Richard Wartenberg serves as a heartbreaking reminder of the risks and responsibilities carried by aviation professionals every day. His legacy will live on through his contributions to the field, his colleagues’ memories, and the continued commitment to safety and excellence that he embodied.
Funeral arrangements and memorial details for Captain Wartenberg will be announced by the family in the coming days.
Rest in peace, Captain Richard Wartenberg. Your service, courage, and dedication will never be forgotten.
