Lede: A UPS cargo plane crashed and exploded near the Kentucky Truck Parts and Service Center in Louisville on Tuesday, narrowly missing employees inside.
Security cameras captured the moment the plane crashed around midday, triggering flames and chaos at the facility. Sabit Aliyev and David Aslanov, who were inside the business, described escaping just as the explosion occurred. “The flames were so bad you could feel the heat from far away,” Aliyev said.
After the crash, the two employees initially struggled to find an exit due to fencing around the property. They were trapped for over an hour before managing to alert nearby officers. “We started yelling and whistling until they came around,” Aslanov recounted, emphasizing their relieved escape with the help of police who brought bolt cutters.
While both men reported that everyone at their business was safe, they expressed concern for neighboring businesses affected by the explosion. As of Wednesday, Grade Lane remained closed as investigations continued into the causes of the crash.
Authorities have confirmed that at least 12 people, including a child, were killed in the incident. Emergency responders were on the scene, providing medical aid and managing the aftermath. Further details about the investigation are pending.
Updated: 8:38 PM EST Nov 5, 2025