At least nine people have died after a UPS plane violently crashed shortly after taking off from Louisville Muhammad Ali International Airport. Kentucky Gov. Andy Beshear described the incident as “heartbreaking,” stating the death toll has risen to at least nine, with concerns for more victims. “These families need prayers, love and support. Let’s wrap our arms around them during this unimaginable time,” he said.

A spokesperson for Louisville Mayor Craig Greenberg confirmed the aircraft, a McDonnell Douglas MD-11, had three crew members on board, according to the Federal Aviation Administration. Heather Fountaine of the University of Louisville Health reported 15 patients were treated across multiple hospitals, with 13 discharged and two remaining in critical condition. Beshear also noted 16 families have reported loved ones unaccounted for.

Video footage captured a massive fireball and smoke plume at the crash site, where the plane carried approximately 38,000 gallons of fuel. Beshear praised over 200 first responders, including 18 fire departments, who worked through the night to manage the “blazing inferno.” The Federal Aviation Administration lifted a Notice to Airmen advisory, and restricted airspace around the airport expired.

Aviation attorney Pablo Rojas observed the plane appeared to struggle with altitude as flames engulfed its left engine. “The plane itself is almost acting like a bomb because of the amount of fuel,” he said. The National Transportation Safety Board is investigating, with flight records indicating the aircraft underwent heavy maintenance in late September. A public school district in Louisville canceled classes for the day, while the airport resumed operations Wednesday morning with at least one runway open.