A UPS plane exploded on the runway during takeoff at the Louisville Airport, leaving at least nine people dead, 11 injured and many still unaccounted for. The crash, which happened around 5:15 p.m. Tuesday, caused a massive fire, with giant plumes of smoke spanning nearly a mile around the airport. The MD-11 plane crashed during takeoff at the Louisville Muhammad Ali International Airport.
Three crew members were on board, UPS confirmed. Video of the incident shows the plane trying to takeoff, catching fire and bursting into flames. In an update Wednesday, Kentucky Gov. Andy Beshear said the number of deaths has risen to 9, with the number expected to rise. The governor said 16 different families have reported loved ones unaccounted for. A significant search and rescue mission has continued Wednesday morning.
Two buildings were also seriously impacted by the crash: Kentucky Petroleum Recycling and Grade A Auto Parts. Two of their employees are believed to be missing at this time. Beshear said no known hazardous materials were onboard the plane, though impacts from the crash could cause hazardous impacts. UPS confirmed the plane was headed to Daniel K. Inouye International Airport in Honolulu.
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