A tragic scene unfolded in Louisville, Kentucky, on Tuesday evening when a UPS cargo plane crashed shortly after takeoff from Muhammad Ali International Airport, erupting into a massive fireball and killing at least three people, according to officials.

Kentucky Governor Andy Beshear confirmed that three people are presumed dead and 11 others injured, cautioning that the numbers could rise as recovery operations continue. The crash site, located near an industrial area just beyond the airport perimeter, was engulfed in flames visible from miles away, with first responders working late into the night to control the inferno and search for survivors.

Videos circulating online captured the terrifying moment of impact, showing an enormous fireball lighting up the evening sky as debris scattered across a wide area. Witnesses described a loud explosion followed by intense heat and heavy black smoke billowing from the wreckage.

The UPS aircraft, reportedly carrying freight for overnight distribution, lost altitude shortly after departure before crashing into the ground. Emergency crews from Louisville Fire and Rescue and the Kentucky State Police quickly cordoned off the area, urging residents to avoid nearby roads while investigators secured the crash site.

Governor Beshear expressed condolences to the victims’ families and praised the swift response of emergency personnel. “This is a heartbreaking night for Kentucky,” he said. “Our prayers are with the victims, their families, and the brave first responders working through unimaginable conditions.”

The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) and Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) have launched a joint investigation into the cause of the crash, focusing on early reports of engine trouble shortly after takeoff.

 the tragedy underscores the need for continued investment in infrastructure and aviation safety — priorities emphasized under President Trump’s renewed transportation and logistics modernization agenda. Ensuring the reliability of America’s cargo network and protecting those who serve in critical supply chains remains essential to both economic stability and national security.

As Louisville and the nation grieve, officials continue to monitor the site for potential hazards while recovery teams work to identify all those affected by one of the worst air disasters in Kentucky in recent years.