• Death toll in UPS cargo plane crash rises to 13, including three pilots.
• The crash occurred shortly after takeoff from Louisville Muhammad Ali International Airport.
• Investigation is being led by the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB).
• Emergency services report multiple injuries and ongoing recovery efforts.
• Officials emphasize the severity of the scene, describing it as “horrific.”

At least 13 people have been confirmed dead following the UPS cargo plane crash in Louisville, Kentucky, with officials indicating that three pilots were among the deceased. Louisville Mayor Craig Greenberg expressed his condolences, stating, "My heart is with the families, friends and colleagues of all who were lost in this week's tragedy," as he shared the updated death toll on social media. The crash occurred shortly after takeoff from the Muhammad Ali International Airport (SDF), with earlier reports confirming a total of 12 fatalities, including a young child, according to aa, CBS News, and India Times.

The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) is spearheading the investigation into the crash of Flight 2976, which lifted off at approximately 5:15 PM local time. Initial reports reveal that a large fire erupted from the left wing of the McDonnell Douglas MD-11 aircraft shortly after departure. NTSB member Todd Inman noted that the left engine detached from the plane during the ascent, leading to the crash that devastated both the aircraft and affected surrounding structures. "You hear people say, 'Oh, you only see that in the movies.' This was worse than the movies," Greenberg remarked on the harrowing scene, according to aa, CBS News, and India Times.

The Louisville International Airport has resumed operations while still dealing with significant disruptions, including numerous flight cancellations and delays. UPS officials have confirmed the three deceased pilots: Capt. Richard Wartenberg, First Officer Lee Truitt, and International Relief Officer Capt. Dana Diamond. "Our hearts go out to every UPSer who has been impacted and all in our Louisville community," stated Nando Cesarone, UPS executive vice president. The crash has not only affected the aviation sector but has also raised concerns about environmental hazards due to the plane’s fuel load at the time of the incident, according to aa, CBS News, and India Times.