Nov. 5 (UPI) -- Kentucky Gov. Andy Beshear announced Wednesday that nine people died in a UPS plane crash in Louisville, Ky., a figure that could increase as emergency workers search for 16 missing people.
"Kentucky, more heartbreaking news out of Louisville. The number of those lost has now risen to at least nine, with the possibility of more. Right now these families need prayers, love and support. Let's wrap our arms around them during this unimaginable time," Beshear said on social media.
There were 11 people injured and at least 16 people missing as of Wednesday morning. There are two in critical condition and eight with non-life-threatening injuries at University of Louisville hospitals, WLKY-TV in Louisville reported. Beshear said he expects those numbers to rise.
The UPS plane, a McDonnell Douglas MD11 freighter, took off from Muhammad Ali International Airport on Tuesday and crashed at about 5:15 p.m. EST, soon after takeoff. Videos of the incident appear to show the plane's engine on fire, then a crash followed by an explosion. Firefighters worked to contain the fire until it was fully extinguished at around 11 p.m. Tuesday. It took more than 100 first responders nearly 6 hours to get it under control, WLKY said.
