Louisville, January 22, 2026
The future of Stooges Bar & Grill in Louisville hangs in the balance following significant financial losses and contamination issues after the November UPS cargo plane crash. Owner Debbie Self has reported a $1 million loss in sales and ongoing environmental testing. The restaurant remains closed as it navigates employee support, community assistance, and potential legal actions stemming from the incident. The future reopening of this beloved local establishment is uncertain as the investigation continues.
Stooges Bar & Grill’s Future Uncertain After UPS Crash
Louisville, Kentucky – The owner of Stooges Bar & Grill, a Louisville institution for over four decades, has expressed concerns about the establishment’s potential closure following the November 2025 UPS cargo plane crash. The incident has led to significant financial losses and contamination issues, leaving the restaurant’s future in jeopardy.
Financial Impact and Contamination
Debbie Self, owner of Stooges Bar & Grill, reported a loss of approximately $1 million in sales since the crash. Despite these losses, she has continued to pay her 43 employees while awaiting results from environmental testing conducted inside and outside the building. The tests aim to assess contamination from smoke, fuel, and oil resulting from the crash. As of now, the final results have not been returned, and the restaurant remains closed. Self has expressed uncertainty about reopening, stating that the situation is dire and that reopening is not as simple as some might think.
Background on the UPS Crash
The UPS cargo plane crashed shortly after takeoff from Louisville Muhammad Ali International Airport on November 4, 2025. The crash resulted in the deaths of 15 people, including all three crew members and 12 individuals on the ground. The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) is leading the investigation into the cause of the crash. In response to the incident, Kentucky Governor Andy Beshear declared a state of emergency, and both UPS and FedEx grounded all MD-11 aircraft to conduct safety reviews. The crash has had a profound impact on the local community, with nearby businesses, including Stooges Bar & Grill, facing significant challenges due to contamination and financial losses. The future of Stooges Bar & Grill remains uncertain as the investigation continues and the community seeks to recover from the tragedy.
Community Support and Legal Actions
In the aftermath of the crash, the community has rallied to support affected businesses and employees. O’Dolly’s Lounge and Restaurant offered temporary positions to Stooges’ staff during the closure. Additionally, APRON Inc., a Louisville-based nonprofit, has been assisting hospitality workers affected by the incident, including those from Stooges Bar & Grill, by providing emergency financial relief. Stooges Bar & Grill is also involved in a class-action lawsuit related to the crash, seeking compensation for the damages and losses incurred. The legal proceedings are ongoing, and the outcome may influence the restaurant’s ability to reopen and recover from the financial hardships caused by the crash.
Conclusion
The future of Stooges Bar & Grill remains uncertain as it continues to grapple with the aftermath of the UPS cargo plane crash. The establishment faces significant financial challenges and contamination issues that have led to its prolonged closure. The community’s support and ongoing legal actions may play a crucial role in determining whether the restaurant can reopen and continue its longstanding presence in Louisville’s hospitality scene.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What caused the closure of Stooges Bar & Grill?
The closure was due to contamination from the November 2025 UPS cargo plane crash, which resulted in smoke, fuel, and oil contamination affecting the restaurant’s property.
How many employees are affected by the closure?
Stooges Bar & Grill employs 43 individuals who have been impacted by the closure.
Is there any support available for the affected employees?
Yes, O’Dolly’s Lounge and Restaurant has offered temporary positions to Stooges’ staff during the closure. Additionally, APRON Inc., a Louisville-based nonprofit, is providing emergency financial relief to hospitality workers affected by the incident, including those from Stooges Bar & Grill.
What is the status of the UPS cargo plane crash investigation?
The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) is leading the investigation into the cause of the crash. As of now, the final results of the environmental testing conducted at Stooges Bar & Grill have not been returned, and the restaurant remains closed.
Is Stooges Bar & Grill involved in any legal actions related to the crash?
Yes, Stooges Bar & Grill is involved in a class-action lawsuit related to the crash, seeking compensation for the damages and losses incurred. The legal proceedings are ongoing, and the outcome may influence the restaurant’s ability to reopen and recover from the financial hardships caused by the crash.
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Financial Impact | Stooges Bar & Grill reported a loss of approximately $1 million in sales since the November 2025 UPS cargo plane crash. |
| Contamination Issues | The restaurant faces contamination from smoke, fuel, and oil resulting from the crash, leading to its closure. |
| Employee Support | O’Dolly’s Lounge and Restaurant offered temporary positions to Stooges’ staff, and APRON Inc. is providing emergency financial relief to affected hospitality workers. |
| Legal Actions | Stooges Bar & Grill is involved in a class-action lawsuit related to the crash, seeking compensation for damages and losses incurred. |
| Investigation Status | The NTSB is leading the investigation into the cause of the crash, with environmental testing results pending for the restaurant’s property. |
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