Three individuals lost their lives in a fiery crash when a cargo plane failed during takeoff, leading to a tragic incident on the ground. The UPS freight aircraft, after veering off the runway, caught fire, causing devastation near the Louisville International Airport where Grade A Autoparts and Kentucky Petroleum Recycling were engulfed in flames. The death toll has now risen to seven, with more expected casualties. Governor Andy Beshear emphasized the severity of injuries sustained, hinting at a grim situation before the catastrophe unfolded.
Eyewitnesses reported that the UPS Flight 2976, carrying 38,000 gallons of fuel, was already ablaze before skidding off the runway. Aviation attorney Pablo Rojas noted the struggle of the aircraft to gain altitude as a fire erupted on its left side, near one of the engines. Due to the substantial fuel load, Rojas suggested that the plane was akin to a potential bomb, given the circumstances.
Witnesses on the ground, like Justin Dunn and Katie Didit, described the horror they witnessed, with debris scattered over a wide area. Dunn mentioned finding charred debris falling from the sky, while Didit recalled hearing a loud noise resembling a truck brake and witnessing a massive explosion while driving home. The scene quickly turned chaotic as dark smoke filled the sky, prompting residents to capture the unfolding events on video and share their experiences on social media.
Kentucky Truck Parts & Service, located near the crash site, narrated how the incident unfolded just 500 feet away from their business, resulting in injuries and property damage in the vicinity. UPS expressed deep sorrow over the accident and assured cooperation with investigative authorities to understand the circumstances and provide necessary support. The safety of employees, customers, and communities remains a top priority for UPS, particularly in Louisville, where the company is deeply rooted.
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