Dash Cam Footage Captures Moment UPS Cargo Plane Crashed Near Louisville Airport
LOUISVILLE, KENTUCKY — Newly released dash cam footage has surfaced showing the terrifying moment a UPS cargo jet crashed near Louisville International Airport, erupting into a massive fireball that could be seen for miles. The crash, which occurred late Saturday night, claimed the lives of three people and prompted a large-scale emergency response across Jefferson County.
Dash Cam Video Shows Explosion on Impact
The video, recorded by a nearby truck driver, shows the cargo aircraft descending at a steep angle before crashing behind a row of freight containers. Within seconds, a massive explosion engulfs the scene in flames and thick black smoke. The driver, visibly stunned, can be seen turning away from the window as the fiery blast lights up the sky.
Officials say the footage has been turned over to investigators with the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) as part of their ongoing probe into the cause of the accident.
Massive Fire and Shelter-in-Place Order
The crash sparked an intense inferno that spread across the surrounding industrial area. Emergency responders from multiple agencies rushed to the scene to contain the flames and search for survivors. Hazmat crews were also deployed amid concerns that the aircraft could have been carrying hazardous materials.
Residents within a five-mile radius were advised to shelter in place as authorities worked to assess air quality and potential risks. The shelter order was later lifted after tests confirmed no harmful toxins were detected in the air.
WATCH: Dash cam video shows UPS plane crash in Louisville, Kentucky pic.twitter.com/dZdpus1fxu
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FAA and NTSB Investigating
Both the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and NTSB are investigating what caused the cargo jet to go down shortly after takeoff. Officials have not yet released the identities of the three victims but confirmed that all were on board the aircraft at the time of the crash.
UPS issued a brief statement following the tragedy, saying:
“We are deeply saddened by the loss of our colleagues and extend our heartfelt condolences to their families. UPS is fully cooperating with authorities during this investigation.”
Eyewitnesses Describe “Explosion That Shook the Ground”
Witnesses in nearby neighborhoods reported hearing a loud boom moments before seeing flames rise into the air. “It felt like the whole ground shook,” said one local resident. “We stepped outside and saw this wall of fire.”
Emergency crews worked through the night to extinguish the fire and secure the crash site. As of Sunday morning, recovery operations were continuing, and investigators were expected to remain on scene for several days.
A City in Mourning
Louisville Mayor Craig Greenberg called the incident “a heartbreaking loss for our city” and thanked first responders for their swift action in preventing further casualties. Vigils are being planned to honor the victims as the community grieves the tragedy.
Officials have urged the public to avoid the area surrounding the airport as cleanup and investigation efforts continue.
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