LOUISVILLE: A UPS cargo plane crashed at Louisville Muhammad Ali International Airport on Wednesday evening (local time), triggering a massive explosion and fire that spread nearly a mile from the crash site.

Authorities confirmed that at least three people are dead and 11 others injured, some seriously. Kentucky Governor Andy Beshear said he expects the numbers to rise as rescue efforts continue.

According to the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), the aircraft went down around 5:15 p.m. as it was taking off from Louisville en route to Daniel K. Inouye International Airport in Honolulu, Hawaii.

UPS said there were three crew members on board, though it remains unclear whether they are among the fatalities.

Because the plane was fully fueled for the long trans-Pacific flight, carrying approximately 38,000 gallons of fuel, the resulting explosion caused a massive blaze that spread to nearby facilities, including a large recycling center.

Emergency crews from more than a dozen agencies rushed to the scene.Authorities said there are no immediate reports of anyone trapped, but search operations continue in surrounding buildings.

Officials have urged the public to avoid the area as firefighters battle the flames and investigate the cause of the crash.