The crash of a UPS cargo plane at an airport in Louisville, Kentucky, on Tuesday at 5:15 p.m. has resulted in the deaths of at least nine people, per CNN. The number of dead may rise. Others remain missing. The plane, which was reportedly bound for Honolulu, per AP, had barely taken off from the runway at Louisville Muhammad Ali International Airport when it burst into flames. A huge fireball ensued, creating a massive amount of black smoke and leaving destruction in its path.
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An official cause of the crash has not yet been determined. However, CNN is reporting that the aircraft "lost an engine at some point during the incident." A team from the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) is expected to arrive in Kentucky today to investigate the crash. That team will consist of at least 28 individuals.
State of Emergency Declared by Kentucky Governor
According to WLKY.com, Governor Andy Beshear declared a state of emergency in the aftermath of the crash on Wednesday morning. Beshear explained, "This allows us to move resources more quickly through emergency management and through the Kentucky National Guard. It allows state resources to be used also through our agencies to be readily available, including disaster resource management, expenses related to response and more, as well as reimbursement."
Per the outlet, "In short, the governor said a State of Emergency will ensure that groups that are limited in funding will be able to receive immediate or short term help."
There Were Numerous Injuries Reported
The outlet also reported that there are 15 people known to be injured. At least 16 remain unaccounted for. "Thirteen people have been discharged from UofL Health and two remain in critical condition in the ICU."
The enormous, intense fire was evidently caused by the amount of fuel that the plane was carrying. It is believed to be 38,000 gallons for the lengthy flight to Hawaii.
People Right Near Crash Site Advised Not To Drink Tap Water Yet
According to WLKY.com, Beshear said residents "immediately near" where the plane crashed should avoid drinking the water until it's determined to be safe to do so. He continued, "Other areas are safe. If you are in the suburbs or in other parts of Louisville,, you are as safe today as you've been any other day. The air is fine. Your water is fine."
