A catastrophic scene unfolded in Louisville, Kentucky, on Tuesday evening when a UPS cargo plane crashed shortly after taking off from Muhammad Ali International Airport, erupting into a massive fireball that lit up the night sky and left at least seven people dead and eleven others injured, according to officials.

Witnesses described a deafening explosion followed by a towering column of flames and black smoke visible for miles. The aircraft, reportedly en route to Dallas, appeared to struggle moments after takeoff before descending rapidly and colliding with an industrial area near the airport. The impact triggered multiple explosions as jet fuel ignited, sending debris and fire across a wide radius.

Emergency responders rushed to the chaotic scene, battling intense flames that engulfed nearby vehicles and structures. Firefighters worked through the night to contain the inferno and recover victims, while investigators from the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) and the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) began examining the cause of the disaster. Early reports indicate that mechanical failure or engine malfunction may have played a role, but officials have not confirmed any specific cause.

Louisville Mayor Craig Greenberg called the crash “a heartbreaking tragedy for our city,” praising the swift response of firefighters and first responders who risked their lives amid exploding fuel tanks and collapsing structures. UPS, headquartered in Louisville, released a statement expressing profound sorrow for the loss of its crew members and those affected by the catastrophe, pledging full cooperation with investigators.

The fiery crash marks one of the most devastating aviation disasters in Louisville’s history and has reignited nationwide discussions about cargo flight safety standards and aging aircraft maintenance. President Trump, who has often emphasized the importance of infrastructure and transportation safety, is expected to issue a statement on the tragedy in the coming hours.

As recovery teams continue to sift through the wreckage, the Louisville community mourns the devastating loss of life and the haunting reminder of how quickly tragedy can strike even in the most routine moments of flight.