Louisville, Kentucky, December 1, 2025
The Louisville community has come together to support Stooges Bar and Grill employees following the UPS plane crash that occurred near the bar. The establishment sustained minimal damage but is temporarily closed due to contamination. Owner Debbie Self is leading a fundraiser to assist her 43 employees, with over $3,000 raised. Local initiatives aimed at providing financial relief for hospitality workers are also underway, showcasing the community’s resilience and compassion in tough times.
Community Unites to Support Stooges Bar and Grill Employees After UPS Plane Crash
Louisville, Kentucky – In the aftermath of the tragic UPS plane crash on November 4, 2025, which resulted in 14 fatalities, the community has rallied to support the employees of Stooges Bar and Grill, a local establishment narrowly missed by the disaster.
Immediate Impact on Stooges Bar and Grill
Located just yards from the crash site, Stooges Bar and Grill sustained minimal damage. The establishment has been temporarily closed due to contamination from smoke, fuel, and oil, with plans to reopen once it’s safe. Owner Debbie Self’s primary concern is the well-being of her 43 employees, ensuring they continue to receive their paychecks during this period. To support her staff, Self has initiated a fundraiser that has raised over $3,000 to date. This effort aims to provide a financial cushion that will aid her employees and their families during the holiday season.
Community Support and Fundraising Efforts
The Louisville community has shown remarkable solidarity through local initiatives. APRON Inc., a nonprofit organization dedicated to assisting restaurant and bar workers facing financial hardships, has launched a holiday campaign specifically to support Stooges Bar staff and other hospitality workers affected by the crash. This campaign focuses on providing emergency financial relief for essentials like rent, food, and utilities, demonstrating a strong commitment to the welfare of service industry employees during a challenging time.
Background on the UPS Plane Crash
The UPS cargo plane, Flight 2976, crashed shortly after takeoff from Louisville Muhammad Ali International Airport on November 4, 2025. The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) has released a preliminary report indicating evidence of fatigue cracks and overstress failure in the plane’s left engine mount. While the investigation continues, the NTSB is expected to provide a probable cause and safety recommendations in its final report, which could take more than a year to complete.
Remembering the Victims
The crash resulted in the loss of 14 lives, including 11 individuals associated with Grade A Auto Parts, a nearby business. The community has been deeply affected, with memorials and support initiatives underway to honor the victims and assist their families during this difficult time. The collective grief underscores the tight-knit nature of the Louisville area and its ability to come together in times of tragedy.
Looking Ahead
As the investigation into the UPS plane crash continues, the Louisville community remains united in its support for those affected. Efforts to assist Stooges Bar and Grill employees and other hospitality workers highlight the resilience and compassion inherent in the local culture. The outpouring of support reflects a broader commitment to fostering a strong, supportive environment for all Louisville’s workers, particularly in tough economic times.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What happened to Stooges Bar and Grill after the UPS plane crash?
Stooges Bar and Grill sustained minimal damage but was temporarily closed due to contamination from smoke, fuel, and oil. The restaurant plans to reopen once it’s safe and is focusing on supporting its 43 employees during this period.
How is the community supporting Stooges Bar and Grill employees?
The Louisville community has shown remarkable solidarity by launching a holiday campaign through APRON Inc., a local nonprofit, to provide emergency financial relief to Stooges Bar staff and other hospitality workers affected by the crash.
What is the status of the investigation into the UPS plane crash?
The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) released a preliminary report indicating evidence of fatigue cracks and overstress failure in the plane’s left engine mount. The investigation is ongoing, with the NTSB expected to provide a probable cause and safety recommendations in its final report, which could take more than a year to complete.
How many people were affected by the UPS plane crash?
The crash resulted in the loss of 14 lives, including 11 individuals associated with Grade A Auto Parts, a nearby business. The community has been deeply affected, with memorials and support initiatives underway to honor the victims and assist their families during this difficult time.
Key Features of the UPS Plane Crash and Community Response
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Incident | UPS cargo plane, Flight 2976, crashed shortly after takeoff from Louisville Muhammad Ali International Airport on November 4, 2025. |
| Investigation | The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) released a preliminary report indicating evidence of fatigue cracks and overstress failure in the plane’s left engine mount. The investigation is ongoing, with the NTSB expected to provide a probable cause and safety recommendations in its final report, which could take more than a year to complete. |
| Community Support | The Louisville community has shown remarkable solidarity by launching a holiday campaign through APRON Inc., a local nonprofit, to provide emergency financial relief to Stooges Bar staff and other hospitality workers affected by the crash. |
| Impact on Stooges Bar and Grill | Stooges Bar and Grill sustained minimal damage but was temporarily closed due to contamination from smoke, fuel, and oil. The restaurant plans to reopen once it’s safe and is focusing on supporting its 43 employees during this period. |
| Victims | The crash resulted in the loss of 14 lives, including 11 individuals associated with Grade A Auto Parts, a nearby business. The community has been deeply affected, with memorials and support initiatives underway to honor the victims and assist their families during this difficult time. |


