At least three people were killed and 11 others injured after a UPS cargo plane crashed shortly after takeoff near Louisville’s Muhammad Ali International Airport on Wednesday evening, Kentucky Governor Andy Beshear confirmed.

The aircraft, identified as UPS Flight 2976, was bound for Honolulu’s Daniel K. Inouye International Airport when it went down around 5:30 pm, triggering a series of massive explosions and a fire that engulfed nearby buildings.

Crash near UPS Worldport facility

Officials said the crash occurred close to the UPS Worldport facility near Grade Lane and Fern Valley Road, just a short distance from the Ford Louisville Assembly Plant, which was placed on lockdown following the explosion. Power outages were reported in surrounding areas.

Eyewitnesses described hearing multiple blasts and seeing a towering plume of smoke rising from the scene.

“It sounded like thunder that wouldn’t stop,” said one resident who lives less than a mile away from the site.

280,000 gallons of fuel on board

According to Louisville Metro Police, the plane was carrying roughly 280,000 gallons of jet fuel, which ignited upon impact and fed the massive blaze. Several structures in the vicinity, including a UPS Supply Chain Solutions warehouse, were severely damaged. Officials fear that some people may be trapped inside as search-and-rescue operations continue.

Shelter-in-place order issued

Authorities have issued a shelter-in-place order within a five-mile radius of the airport, urging residents to stay indoors and avoid the crash area “until further notice.”

Investigation underway

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) have dispatched investigators to the site to determine the cause of the crash.

Grade Lane has been closed indefinitely between Stooge and Crittenden drives as firefighters continue battling the flames.

UPS confirmed that three crew members were aboard the plane at the time of the incident.

“Our hearts are with the families and loved ones of those affected. We are cooperating fully with authorities as they investigate,” UPS said in a statement.