Body of Missing American Airlines Flight Attendant Found in Colombia

Eric Fernando Gutierrez Molina's death under investigation as possible foul play

Apr. 3, 2026 at 2:22pm

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An extreme close-up photograph of a cracked cell phone screen reflecting a faint light, conceptually illustrating the mystery surrounding the disappearance and death of the airline worker.The grim discovery of a personal item belonging to the missing American Airlines flight attendant raises troubling questions about his final moments.Fort Worth Today

The body of Eric Fernando Gutierrez Molina, a 32-year-old American Airlines flight attendant from Fort Worth, Texas, was discovered in northeast Colombia on March 26, 2026. Gutierrez had been missing since March 22 during a layover in Medellín. Authorities believe he may have been the victim of a robbery gone wrong, as he and a co-worker reportedly encountered individuals with a history of theft in the El Poblado neighborhood of Medellín.

Why it matters

The tragic death of Gutierrez, a popular and well-liked flight attendant, has shocked his family, friends, and the broader aviation community. It also raises concerns about the safety of airline crew members during layovers in certain regions, as well as the potential dangers of scopolamine, a drug that can be used to incapacitate victims. The investigation into Gutierrez's death is ongoing.

The details

According to reports, Gutierrez and his co-worker were staying at an Airbnb in Medellín on March 22 when they encountered individuals known to commit theft in the area. Authorities believe the suspects may have used scopolamine, a drug that can cause disorientation and drowsiness, to incapacitate Gutierrez and his co-worker. Gutierrez's body was later discovered on March 26 between the municipalities of Jericó and Puente Iglesias, about 12 miles from the Medellín airport.

  • Gutierrez arrived in Medellín, Colombia on March 21, 2026 for a one-night layover.
  • Gutierrez was last heard from on March 22, 2026, when he shared his location at an Airbnb about 12 miles from the Medellín airport.
  • Gutierrez's body was discovered on March 26, 2026 in the northeast region of Colombia.

The players

Eric Fernando Gutierrez Molina

A 32-year-old American Airlines flight attendant from Fort Worth, Texas who went missing during a layover in Medellín, Colombia and was later found dead.

Mayra Gutierrez

The sister of Eric Fernando Gutierrez Molina.

Federico Gutiérrez

The mayor of Medellín, Colombia who announced the discovery of Gutierrez's body.

Manuel Villa

The Medellín Security Secretary who shared details about Gutierrez's encounter with individuals known for theft in the El Poblado neighborhood.

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What they’re saying

“'There is a very high probability that it is this person. The lifeless body is being transported to legal medicine in Medellín for identification and recognition. We express our solidarity with his family and friends.'”

— Federico Gutiérrez, Mayor of Medellín

“'It is with profound sadness that we share the passing of Fernando Gutierrez. Fernando's personality will always be remembered as a ball of sunshine as he entered and exited a room. He will always be remembered as a docile, charismatic, goofy man who always provided a helping hand.'”

— GoFundMe Page

What’s next

Authorities in Colombia are conducting a full investigation into the circumstances surrounding Gutierrez's death, which they believe may have involved foul play. The family has set up a GoFundMe page to help bring Gutierrez's body back to Texas.

The takeaway

This tragic incident highlights the potential dangers that airline crew members can face during layovers, especially in regions with high crime rates. It also underscores the need for enhanced safety protocols and support systems to protect workers in the aviation industry.