On Wednesday, Louisville marked the first anniversary of the tragic UPS Flight 2976 crash that claimed 15 lives, including all three crew members. The remembrance ceremony was held at the Okolona Fire Department, bringing together UPS representatives, city officials, first responders, and families of the victims.
Officials reflect on the loss
Lieutenant Governor Jacqueline Coleman opened the ceremony, noting that “a day none of us will ever forget” still weighs heavily on the community. “In some ways, 365 days feels like an eternity of carrying a heavy burden,” she said, adding that for many attendees the loss feels as fresh as yesterday.
Mayor Craig Greenberg also addressed the crowd, emphasizing the lasting impact on families, friends, and neighbors. “Fifteen people lost their lives. Loved ones, friends, neighbors. Countless other lives were changed forever,” he said. Greenberg reassured residents that Louisville will continue to support those grieving, promising that no one will have to face the sorrow alone.
Memorial traditions unite the city
At the conclusion of the ceremony, a bell was rung fifteen times, one toll for each victim. The city has organized a broader observance called “Louisville Remembers Together.” At 5:14 p.m., churches, places of worship, and other institutions across Louisville are encouraged to ring bells or carillons for one minute, followed by a minute of silence at 5:15 p.m.
Citizens are invited to display yellow lighting on homes, businesses, and public structures. Louisville Metro Hall, the Big Four Bridge, and the spires at Churchill Downs will be illuminated in yellow for the evening, while community members are asked to wear yellow or light their buildings in the same color as a sign of solidarity.
Private memorial and ongoing support
A private memorial will also be held at Grade A Auto Parts on Melton Avenue, beginning at 4:30 p.m. The event will feature remarks from the mayor and other local leaders and will be streamed online for those unable to attend in person.
First responders who assisted in the crash response were recognized for their bravery and dedication. Their quick actions helped secure the crash site and provide critical assistance to victims and families.
Remembering the victims
The lives lost in the crash included:
- Capt. Dana Diamond, 62
- Capt. Richard Wartenberg, 57
- First Officer Lee Truitt, 45
- Angela Anderson, 45
- Carlos Fernandez, 52
- Louisnes Fedon, 47
- Kimberly Asa, 3 (granddaughter of Louisnes Fedon)
- Trinadette “Trina” Chavez, 37
- Tony Crain, 65
- John Loucks, 52
- John Spray, 45
- Matthew Sweets, 37
- Ella Petty Whorton, 31
- Megan Washburn, 35
- Alain Rodriguez Colina
The ceremony and citywide observance serve as a reminder that Louisville stands together in grief and hope, honoring those lost while supporting the families who continue to heal.
Original reporting: WLKY Louisville — read the source article.
