We reported last week that Fernando Gutierrez, a 32-year-old American Airlines flight attendant, was missing in Medellín, Colombia.
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On the night of March 22, during an overnight layover, he reportedly went to a nightclub in the El Poblado neighborhood, a popular nightlife area in the city.
Gutierrez was with a group that later encountered two men at a nightclub. They allegedly invited them to continue the night at another location. He later became separated from the group.
Authorities later found his friend disoriented and took her to a medical center. Gutierrez's whereabouts remained unknown until now.
There Has Been an Update on the Missing Flight Attendant
Five days after Gutierrez went missing, the mayor of Medellín shared on X that there was a "high probability" that a body found "between the municipality of Jericó and Puente Iglesias" belonged to Gutierrez. The post was written in Spanish. Authorities suspect foul play.
The flight attendant's family confirmed on a GoFundMe created for him that the body was his.
"It is with profound sadness we share the passing of Fernando Gutierrez," the message read. "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."
Gutierrez Was Described As a "Beautiful Soul"
The message says that Fernando was "born and raised in El Salvador." He then "made the decision to become a US citizen and pursue a career in the aviation community."
"His mother describes him as a person with a beautiful soul that was quickly recognized by anyone," it continues. "Fernando and his brother had an amazing bond. They both traveled to Dallas, TX, where they stuck by each other's side through thick and thin, supporting and loving each other through every chapter of their lives.
"Ernesto, his partner of many years, will always remember and cherish the beautiful person he was. He was the sunshine in his life and will forever remember and cherish him."
Gutierrez is survived by his parents, brother, and partner. Over $40,000 has been raised to help return him home to Texas.
American Airlines said in a statement, "We are heartbroken by the tragic passing of our colleague. Our thoughts and support are with his family, loved ones, and colleagues during this difficult time, and we are doing all we can to assist Colombian law enforcement in its investigation."
