What began as an ordinary night turned into heartbreak when a UPS MD-11 cargo plane went down near the Louisville International Airport, striking a nearby truck stop and engulfing part of the area in flames.

Authorities have now confirmed that at least 11 people were injured, several critically, after the crash sent debris and fire across multiple lots near Interstate 65.

Among the injured, officials say, is a relative of music legend Stevie Nicks — a connection that has drawn an outpouring of prayers from across the country.

“It Happened in Seconds”

Witnesses described a horrifying scene: a sudden roar, a low rumble, and then a wall of flame as the plane — reportedly carrying cargo bound for Chicago — came down shortly after takeoff.

“It was just after midnight,” said truck driver Bill Anderson, who was fueling nearby. “The sky lit up orange. You could feel the heat from a hundred yards away. Then people started yelling — some were trapped, others running for their lives.”

Emergency responders arrived within minutes, battling flames and searching through the wreckage for survivors.

A Family Connection That Shocked Fans

While the identities of all victims have not yet been released publicly, a representative for Stevie Nicks confirmed that one of the injured is a close relative of the Fleetwood Mac frontwoman.

“Stevie is aware of the situation and is heartbroken,” the representative said in a brief statement.

“She’s asked for privacy and for everyone to keep all victims — not just her family — in their prayers.”

Friends of the family say the news has hit Nicks “deeply,” especially given her longtime ties to Kentucky, where she has performed for decades and supported several local charities.

Rescue Efforts Continue

Louisville Metro Fire Department Chief Tom Jeffers confirmed that firefighters worked through the night to contain the blaze and stabilize survivors.

“This was one of the most dangerous recovery operations we’ve faced in years,” Jeffers said at a morning press briefing.

“But our teams worked heroically. They saved lives tonight.”

Several of the injured were transported to University of Louisville Hospital, including the Nicks family member, whose condition is being described as serious but stable.

Community in Mourning, Nation in Prayer

By dawn, locals had already begun leaving flowers, notes, and candles at the crash site fence — a quiet vigil forming as investigators combed through the wreckage.

Across social media, tributes poured in under the hashtag #PrayForLouisville, with fans, first responders, and fellow musicians expressing support.

“This city always shows up for its people,” wrote one resident on X (formerly Twitter).

“Tonight, it’s our turn to show up for them.”

The Investigation Ahead

The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) has taken over the investigation, with early reports suggesting a possible mechanical failure shortly after takeoff. Black box recovery is already underway.

UPS has issued a statement offering condolences and confirming full cooperation with federal authorities.

“Our hearts are with those affected. We are working closely with investigators and providing every possible support to the victims and their families.”

A Moment of Humanity in the Midst of Tragedy

As the smoke cleared and emergency lights faded into the early morning, witnesses said one small moment stood out: a group of bystanders — total strangers — forming a human chain to help lift debris off trapped victims before first responders arrived.

“Nobody thought about who was who,” one rescuer said. “We just acted. Everyone did.”

It was a reminder that in the face of tragedy, compassion still leads.

And as the world now sends love to the victims — and to Stevie Nicks and her family — one thing remains clear: even in sorrow, the human heart keeps finding ways to rise.