At least seven persons were killed and numerous others were injured when a UPS cargo plane crashed shortly after departure from Louisville Muhammad Ali International Airport in Kentucky.
The MD-11F cargo plane caught fire shortly after takeoff at approximately 5:15 p.m. local time (10:15 p.m. GMT), causing massive plumes of black smoke to billow across the city.
Governor Andy Beshear confirmed the mishap and deaths that took place on Tuesday night and said that the three crew members on board were probably among the dead.
Two employees at a local car repair shop hit by the aircraft are still unaccounted for, while eleven other people are said to have suffered severe injuries.
Authorities said that the almost 38,000 gallons (144,000 liters) of jet fuel the aircraft was transporting on its 4,300-mile flight to Hawaii were responsible for the fire that broke out after the crash.
A petroleum recycling facility was among the businesses impacted by the explosion, which prompted a temporary citywide shelter-in-place order within a five-mile radius. As emergency personnel struggled to contain the fire, the order was subsequently reduced to one mile.
Because of the amount of fuel that had spilled and the ongoing fire risks, Louisville Fire Department Chief Brian O’Neal called the scene “extremely dangerous.”
He declared, “Our teams are working nonstop to cool down the wreckage and prevent further explosions.”
Due to ongoing rescue efforts and safety concerns, airport authorities grounded all departing planes on Tuesday night.
Governor Beshear warned of lingering risks and advised locals to avoid the crash area.
“Those who have viewed the photos are aware of how horrific this collision was. Potential explosives and combustible items are still present on the scene, he stated.
Paul Humphrey, the chief of Louisville Metro Police, stated that while investigators attempt to secure and examine the wreckage, the site will remain an active scene for several days.
Before it joined the UPS fleet in 2006, the 34-year-old McDonnell Douglas MD-11F made its first flight with Thai Airways in 1990.
UPS responded to the tragedy in a statement, saying it was “deeply saddened.” “The families of those impacted are in our thoughts.” The corporation stated, “We are dedicated to supporting local authorities and guaranteeing the safety of our employees and community.”
