At least nine people have died after a UPS plane violently crashed shortly after taking off from Louisville Muhammad Ali International Airport. Kentucky Gov. Andy Beshear expressed deep sorrow, stating, “Kentucky, more heartbreaking news out of Louisville. The number of those lost has now risen to at least 9, with the possibility of more. Right now these families need prayers, love and support. Let’s wrap our arms around them during this unimaginable time.”

A spokesperson for Louisville Mayor Craig Greenberg confirmed the crash involved a McDonnell Douglas MD-11 aircraft, which had three crew members on board, according to the Federal Aviation Administration. Heather Fountaine of the University of Louisville Health reported 15 patients were treated across multiple hospitals, with 13 discharged and two remaining in critical condition. Beshear also noted 16 families have reported loved ones unaccounted for.

Video footage captured a massive fireball and smoke plume at the crash site, where the plane carried approximately 38,000 gallons of fuel. Beshear praised the rapid response of over 200 law enforcement officers and 18 fire departments, describing the scene as a “blazing inferno.” The Federal Aviation Administration lifted a Notice to Airmen advisory, ending temporary restricted airspace around the airport.

Aviation attorney Pablo Rojas analyzed footage, noting the aircraft struggled to gain altitude with a fire on its left engine, likening the explosion to a “bomb” due to the fuel load. The National Transportation Safety Board is investigating, with flight records indicating the plane underwent maintenance in San Antonio from September 3 to October 18. Jeff Guzzetti, a former federal crash investigator, emphasized that maintenance records will be critical to determining the cause.

The airport resumed operations Wednesday morning, with one runway open. A Louisville public school district canceled classes for the day as authorities continue their efforts.