Investigation Underway
Officials released early findings as the mayor confirmed the death toll following a cargo plane crash near Louisville Muhammad Ali International Airport. Federal investigators reported that the left engine of a UPS MD-11F detached during takeoff, causing the aircraft to crash just beyond the runway. Several people were killed in the aftermath.
Plumes of fire and smoke rose from the site on November 4, 2025, shocking the community. Video footage and physical evidence guided the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) to their initial conclusions.
Flight Struggled After Takeoff
The crash occurred around 5:15 p.m. as the MD-11F was en route to Honolulu. NTSB spokesperson Todd Inman said, “The plane lifted off, cleared the fence at the end of Runway 17R, but shortly after, it struck structures and terrain off airport property.”
The plane’s violent impact and the left engine separation caused massive damage. CBS News’ Kris Van Cleave explained, “That 5-ton engine was thrown across the runway and into the grass area on the right side.” Debris likely damaged the right wing, raising concerns that two engines may have malfunctioned during takeoff.
Flight Recorders Recovered
Despite the intense fire, investigators recovered the plane’s black boxes. Inman noted, “They were not in post-impact fire for multiple days or underwater, so data recovery is still possible.” CCTV footage confirmed the left engine detached during the takeoff roll.
Mayor Updates on Victims
Louisville Mayor Craig Greenberg confirmed 12 deaths: three crew members and nine unidentified individuals. Fifteen families sought information at a family assistance center operated by Louisville Metro Police.
Social media reactions poured in. One viewer wrote, “How can that happen? They all go through safety inspections before leaving the ground!” Others speculated maintenance errors or sabotage, while many expressed prayers for the victims.
FAA Joins Investigation
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) confirmed it would work alongside the NTSB. In a statement, the FAA emphasized that all information is preliminary and subject to change.
Kentucky Governor Andy Beshear shared his sorrow, urging prayers for the families and adherence to shelter-in-place orders due to potential hazards from the crash site.
Emergency Response
Dozens of emergency agencies responded, including local fire departments, the Kentucky National Guard, police departments, and Louisville Metro EMS. Initial reports confirmed at least three dead and 11 injured, with numbers expected to rise.
A victim reunification center opened at the Louisville Metro Police Training Academy, while the United Way provided shelter and support.
Impact on Nearby Businesses
The crash struck two main businesses: Kentucky Patrol and Recycling and Grade A Autoparts. Most staff were accounted for, but some remain unconfirmed. Authorities expanded the shelter-in-place radius to cover areas north of the airport, South Louisville, Old Louisville, Downtown, and beyond.
LG&E reported minor equipment damage with no major outages. Nearby facilities, including the Ford Motor Company plant and the Convention Center, implemented safety measures, halting operations temporarily.
Community Grieves and Reacts
Governor Beshear highlighted the emotional toll, especially the uncertainty faced by families. He urged public support, prayers, and compassion. The status of the flight crew remains unknown.
Mayor Greenberg, returning from out of town, actively coordinated emergency response efforts alongside his team. At least seven deaths were later confirmed, with more than 100 firefighters and emergency personnel working on-site.
Horrific Footage Captures Devastation
Surveillance videos show the aircraft veering low over parked cars before crashing, triggering a massive fireball and thick black smoke. Flames quickly spread across the area, engulfing nearby structures.
Josh Mitcham, a singer and songwriter at the airport, described the scene from his plane. “We didn’t know what happened at first. The captain recommended we get off the plane. From my window, I saw thick, dark smoke billowing into the sky,” he said. Flights were suspended, and he rebooked for the following day.
Support Pours In
The Muhammad Ali Center expressed solidarity with victims, families, and local businesses while thanking first responders for their tireless work. Messages of support continue to flow as the Louisville community grapples with the tragedy.
Looking Ahead
Authorities continue to investigate the crash, focusing on the causes of engine failure and overall flight safety. Families, officials, and residents await updates, hoping for answers amid a community still reeling from shock and loss.