A UPS cargo jet crashed in Kentucky, resulting in a fireball and the tragic deaths of 12 individuals. Investigators have revealed that the crash occurred after the jet’s engine broke away during takeoff.
New details from the initial investigation emerged today as the death toll climbed to 12 following the incident at Muhammad Ali International Airport in Louisville on Tuesday evening. Surveillance footage from the airport depicted the left engine separating from the wing of the 34-year-old McDonnell Douglas MD-11 during its departure down the runway. The aircraft then exploded and collided with nearby industrial structures.
Todd Inman, an official from the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), stated during a briefing that airport security cameras captured the engine detachment and a subsequent fire near the left wing during takeoff. The crash resulted in debris scattered over an extensive area of about half a mile, making the search for survivors challenging.
Despite briefly gaining altitude, the plane destined for Honolulu crashed beyond the airport perimeter, striking Kentucky Petroleum Recycling and Grade A Autoparts. The impact caused a massive fireball illuminating the night sky and igniting a significant blaze in the industrial zone.
In response to the tragedy, Governor Andy Beshear declared a state of emergency to expedite assistance to the crash site. Louisville Mayor Craig Greenberg confirmed the rising death toll of 12, which included the UPS crew members, ground workers, and a child. Additionally, 11 people sustained injuries in the incident.
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