Tragedy Strikes Coach Dave Roberts As Cousin Elias Perishes In Air India Flight 171 Disaster

A Devastating Loss Rocks The Dodgers Family

In a heartbreaking turn of events, Los Angeles Dodgers manager Dave Roberts is mourning the tragic death of his cousin Elias, who was confirmed among the victims of the catastrophic Air India Flight 171 crash. The devastating incident, which occurred near Ahmedabad, India, has sent shockwaves through the global aviation industry and left hundreds of families in mourning — including one of Major League Baseball’s most respected leaders.

The Crash That Claimed Over 240 Lives

On June 13, 2025, Air India Flight 171, a Boeing 787 Dreamliner en route from Ahmedabad to London, tragically crashed shortly after takeoff. With 241 passengers and crew on board, the plane went down under still-unclear circumstances. Early reports suggest possible mechanical issues with engine thrust or wing flaps, and investigators are probing maintenance logs and black box data to determine the precise cause of the crash.

The tragedy is now one of the deadliest air disasters in India’s aviation history.

Dave Roberts Faces Unimaginable Grief

For Dave Roberts, this isn’t just a headline. This is deeply personal. Elias, his cousin and childhood companion, was one of the many lives lost on that ill-fated flight. A source close to the Dodgers confirmed that Roberts received the news shortly after the team’s road series ended and was “absolutely devastated.”

The organization has since granted him immediate and indefinite leave to grieve with his family in private.

MLB Rallies Around Roberts And His Family

Support for Dave Roberts has poured in from across Major League Baseball. Players, coaches, and rival executives have issued public messages of sympathy and solidarity. The Dodgers organization posted a heartfelt message on social media, stating:

“The Dodgers mourn with Dave Roberts and his family during this unimaginable time. Elias will be remembered. We are here for our manager, our friend, our brother.”

Fans have responded in kind, flooding forums and comment sections with prayers, condolences, and stories about Roberts’ character and leadership both on and off the field.

A Heartbreaking Reminder Beyond Baseball

This tragic moment is a painful reminder that life’s deepest challenges don’t come from the game itself, but from the unpredictable nature of fate. While the baseball season continues, the Dodgers clubhouse has been profoundly affected, with several players reportedly in tears during the morning meeting after the news broke.

Team captain Mookie Betts shared during an interview:

“Dave means the world to us. He always has our backs, and now, it’s time for us to have his.”

Investigations Underway Into Flight 171

International aviation authorities, including India’s DGCA and Boeing representatives, are actively investigating the crash. Key focus areas include aircraft maintenance records, weather conditions, pilot communications, and possible systemic failures. Until a conclusive report is filed, Flight 171 remains under intense global scrutiny.

A Moment Of Silence Across The League

In honor of Elias and all victims aboard Flight 171, MLB has announced that all games this weekend will observe a moment of silence before the national anthem. Additionally, Dodgers players are expected to wear a black armband for the remainder of the month.

Conclusion The Game Pauses But The Grief Continues

While baseball is built on numbers, rivalries, and triumphs, moments like these remind us of the fragile threads that tie us all together. Dave Roberts, a symbol of perseverance and excellence in the sport, now faces a personal trial greater than any playoff battle.

We extend our deepest condolences to the Roberts family and all who lost loved ones in this tragic event. May Elias’s memory be a source of strength and peace in the difficult days ahead.