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UPS FLIGHT CRASH
A former Bastrop County fire chief was one of 14 people killed in a UPS cargo plane crash Nov. 4 in Louisville, Kentucky.
Capt. Dana Diamond, an international relief officer and one of three pilots aboard the UPS Flight 2976 cargo plane, died when the aircraft went down in an industrial area shortly after takeoff from Louisville Muhammad Ali International Airport. Diamond previously served as commissioner and chief of Bastrop County Emergency Services District No. 1.
“Bastrop County ESD No. 1 is deeply saddened by the loss of former Commissioner and Chief Dana Diamond,” district officials said in a statement. “He ran toward danger so the rest of us can step back from it, and that kind of devotion to his community leaves a mark on everyone it touches.”
Residents and former colleagues remembered Diamond as a strong leader and devoted public servant.
“He leaves behind not only a legacy of service but also the memories with fellow firefighters and the community he served,” the district said. “His contribution to the citizens of Bastrop County, Texas, are immeasurable. May his family find comfort in knowing he served our community to make it a better place, and may we honor his memory.”
The cause of the crash remains under investigation.
The 34-year-old MD-11 aircraft fell rapidly after takeoff, according to the National Transportation Safety Board, which said the investigation could take up to a year.
“Words can’t express the sorrow we feel over the heartbreaking Flight 2976 accident,” UPS Executive Vice President Nando Cesarone said. “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.”
UPS has temporarily grounded its MD-11 fleet “out of an abundance of caution” and the recommendation of the aircraft’s manufacturer.
“Nothing is more important to us than the safety of our employees and the communities we serve,” the company said.
