American Airlines Flight Attendant Reported Missing in Colombia

Authorities believe he may have been drugged and are investigating the incident.

Mar. 27, 2026 at 5:05pm

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An American Airlines flight attendant named Eric Fernando Gutiérrez Molina has been reported missing in Medellín, Colombia. Molina landed in Medellín on March 21 on a flight from Miami, and was last seen early Sunday morning after a party at a club in the El Poblado neighborhood, with a man and a woman. Authorities believe Molina may have been drugged and are investigating the claim.

Why it matters

The disappearance of an American citizen in a foreign country raises concerns about the safety and security of travelers. This incident highlights the potential risks that flight attendants and other airline personnel can face when traveling internationally for work.

The details

According to the Medellín security secretary, Molina landed in Medellín on March 21 on a flight from Miami. He was last seen early Sunday morning after a party at a club in the El Poblado neighborhood, with a man and a woman. Authorities believe Molina may have been drugged and are investigating that claim.

  • Molina landed in Medellín on March 21.
  • Molina was last seen early Sunday morning.

The players

Eric Fernando Gutiérrez Molina

An American Airlines flight attendant who has been reported missing in Medellín, Colombia.

American Airlines

The airline that employed Molina and is cooperating with local authorities in the investigation.

Medellín Security Secretary

The local law enforcement agency in Medellín, Colombia that is investigating Molina's disappearance.

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What they’re saying

“We are actively engaged with local law enforcement officials in their investigation and doing all we can to support our team member's family during this time.”

— American Airlines

“The Trump Administration has no greater priority than the safety and security of Americans, and the State Department stands ready to provide all consular assistance to Americans in need abroad.”

— State Department Spokesperson

What’s next

The Medellín security secretary stated that authorities are investigating the claim that Molina may have been drugged. The State Department said it is closely tracking the situation and stands ready to provide consular assistance.

The takeaway

This incident underscores the potential risks and vulnerabilities that American travelers, including airline personnel, can face when abroad. It highlights the importance of vigilance, situational awareness, and close coordination between U.S. authorities and local law enforcement when dealing with the disappearance of American citizens overseas.