On Tuesday, Nov 4, at Louisville airport, a UPS crashed and erupted, killing many and severely injuring even more. As of Nov. 7, the number of victims has risen to 14. Kentucky investigators are currently investigating these deaths, but more importantly, Louisville residents are grappling with the destruction, injury, and shock of this mess.
Governor Andy Beshear declared a state of emergency last week in the wake of this event, utilizing the National Guard and emergency services. He additionally utilized the Kentucky Emergency Relief Fund, and according to Channel 5, “every dollar is being donated to those impacted, for funerals, response, recovery, and rebuilding.”
The two buildings that were most affected by this explosion were the Kentucky Petroleum Recycling building and Grade A Auto Parts, which were mostly burned and destroyed. But as for other businesses and residents, rebuilding will be a process and one that is difficult to broach at the moment, given the devastation that has whipped the city of Louisville.
According to USA TODAY, the cargo was en route to Hawaii, filled with fuel. The left wing and engine detached within a few minutes of being in the air, colliding with buildings and surrounding industry. Emergency response worked far into the night to contain the fire that spanned over half a mile. The plane, before landing in Louisville, was in San Antonio, TX, apparently needing repairs to its engine.
Ultimately, this has been and will continue to be devastating to families with loved ones involved. Smoke exposure has also proven to be an issue, as many Louisville local schools closed soon after the devastating crash. Resident and industrial owner, Arnela Kustric, stated, “Everything we built the last three years… his own company…everything went to ashes in one minute.”
And while there are many unknowns still up for investigation, prayers and heartfelt wishes go out to Louisville residents and those grappling with the results of this travesty.
