Days after a United Parcel Service cargo plane crash caused a deadly fireball in Louisville, Kentucky, authorities fear the death count could keep growing as a slow search for answers begins.
At least 12 people were killed and multiple others were injured in the Nov. 4 crash, officials said. Officials described an "apocalyptic" scene, recounting the falling debris and a blackened sky over Louisville in the moments after the crash.
As of Nov. 5, at least nine people were confirmed to have been killed on the ground, in addition to the plane's three members who are believed to be dead, according to authorities. Due to the extent of the damage, Gov. Andy Beshear said coroners may have difficulty identifying the bodies.
Beshear has warned that the death toll could grow as authorities do not expect to find any survivors at the crash site. Earlier on Nov. 5, the governor said 16 families had reported loved ones who were unaccounted for.
"I'm deeply saddened to share that the death toll has risen to 12, with several individuals still unaccounted for," Louisville Mayor Craig Greenberg said in a statement on social media Nov. 5. "No one should face tragedy alone. Please take a moment to hug your loved ones and check on your neighbors."
