Louisville, January 6, 2026
Louisville has released new footage from the LMPD depicting the aftermath of a tragic UPS plane crash that claimed 15 lives. The incident involved a McDonnell Douglas MD-11 cargo plane shortly after takeoff from Louisville Muhammad Ali International Airport. The left engine detached due to fatigue cracks, resulting in a catastrophic fire and crash. Emergency response footage shows officers managing the disaster scene and assessing the damage across the area.
Louisville Reveals LMPD Footage of UPS Plane Crash Aftermath
Louisville, Kentucky – Newly released footage from the Louisville Metro Police Department (LMPD) provides a detailed view of the immediate aftermath of the tragic UPS plane crash that occurred on November 4, 2025. The incident resulted in the loss of 15 lives, including three crew members and 12 individuals on the ground.
Crash Details
On November 4, 2025, UPS Flight 2976, a McDonnell Douglas MD-11 cargo plane, crashed shortly after takeoff from Louisville Muhammad Ali International Airport. The aircraft was en route to Honolulu, Hawaii, carrying a full load of fuel for the nine-hour flight. Approximately 30 feet into the air, the plane’s left engine detached, leading to a catastrophic fire and subsequent crash into an industrial area south of the airport. The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) identified “fatigue cracks” in the engine mount as a contributing factor to the engine’s detachment.
Emergency Response
The newly released LMPD footage offers a comprehensive look at the emergency response efforts. Body camera footage captures officers directing individuals away from the crash site, urging them to evacuate their vehicles and seek safety due to the heavy smoke and potential hazards. Aerial views from an LMPD helicopter reveal the extensive damage caused by the crash, with thick black smoke billowing from the wreckage. Officers are seen surveying the destruction, with debris scattered across the area and fires still burning in the background.
Investigation and Aftermath
The NTSB’s preliminary report indicates that the left engine detached during takeoff, leading to the crash. The investigation is ongoing to determine the exact cause of the engine failure. In response to the disaster, Kentucky Governor Andy Beshear declared a state of emergency, mobilizing resources to assist in the recovery and investigation efforts. The crash has prompted discussions on aviation safety and the importance of regular maintenance checks to prevent similar incidents in the future.
Background Context
UPS Airlines Flight 2976 was a scheduled domestic cargo flight from Louisville to Honolulu. The McDonnell Douglas MD-11 aircraft, built in 1991, was fully loaded with fuel for the nine-hour journey. The crash resulted in the loss of all three crew members and 12 individuals on the ground, marking it as one of the most devastating aviation accidents in recent history. The NTSB’s investigation continues to analyze the factors leading to the engine detachment and subsequent crash.
Key Features of the UPS Plane Crash Incident
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Aircraft | McDonnell Douglas MD-11 cargo plane |
| Flight Number | UPS Flight 2976 |
| Departure Airport | Louisville Muhammad Ali International Airport |
| Destination | Honolulu, Hawaii |
| Fatalities | 15 (3 crew members, 12 individuals on the ground) |
| Injuries | 23 individuals on the ground |
| Investigation Status | Ongoing by the National Transportation Safety Board |
| Contributing Factor Identified | “Fatigue cracks” in the engine mount |
| State of Emergency Declared | Yes, by Kentucky Governor Andy Beshear |
What caused the UPS plane crash in Louisville?
The National Transportation Safety Board’s preliminary report indicates that the left engine detached during takeoff, leading to the crash. The investigation is ongoing to determine the exact cause of the engine failure.
How many people were affected by the UPS plane crash?
The crash resulted in the loss of 15 lives, including three crew members and 12 individuals on the ground. Additionally, 23 people on the ground sustained injuries.
What is the current status of the investigation into the UPS plane crash?
The National Transportation Safety Board is conducting an ongoing investigation to determine the exact cause of the engine detachment and subsequent crash. The preliminary report identified “fatigue cracks” in the engine mount as a contributing factor.
What actions have been taken in response to the UPS plane crash?
In response to the disaster, Kentucky Governor Andy Beshear declared a state of emergency, mobilizing resources to assist in the recovery and investigation efforts. The crash has also prompted discussions on aviation safety and the importance of regular maintenance checks.
Where can I find the newly released LMPD footage of the UPS plane crash?
The newly released LMPD footage, including body camera and aerial views, is available through the Louisville Metro Police Department’s official channels and has been reported by various news outlets.
Now Happening on X
- @WDRBNews (January 5, 2026, 11:00 AM) A Louisville city council member is advocating to shut down a local lounge following a shooting that injured four people, including a 17-year-old. View on X
- @courierjournal (January 6, 2026, 12:15 AM) A Louisville man faces charges after allegedly entering the home of LMPD Chief Paul Humphrey while intoxicated. View on X
- @WLKY (January 5, 2026, 12:20 AM) Louisville police have arrested a man linked to a December shooting that injured a woman. View on X
- @WDRBNews (January 1, 2026, 12:21 AM) LMPD is investigating a shooting outside a fast food restaurant in downtown Louisville near the NuLu neighborhood. View on X
- @WLKY (January 2, 2026, 12:00 AM) The Louisville community is reeling from a wave of New Year’s violence, leaving residents heartbroken. View on X
- @WDRBNews (January 5, 2026, 3:30 AM) A push is underway by a council member to close a Louisville lounge after a shooting incident involving four victims, one a teenager. View on X
- @Oremus4Pacem (January 1, 2026, 7:39 AM) Reports indicate LMPD is probing a shooting outside a downtown Louisville McDonald’s restaurant. View on X
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Louisville’s Resilience Through a Year of Challenges
Unlocking Potential: The Ohio River’s Economic Influence on Louisville
Mother Advocates for Gun Safety After Daughter’s Suicide
Louisville Man Arrested After Shooting Over Snack Dispute
Charges Filed Against Asa McNealy in Police Shooting Incident
Fatal Crash on Preston Highway Near Okolona Claims One Life
Louisville Hosts CROSS 2026 Religious Conference with Major Economic Impact
UPS Plane Crash and Crystal Rogers Conviction Impact Louisville Community
Wayside Christian Mission Honors Homeless Lives Lost
Man Shot in Algonquin Neighborhood of Louisville
