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SAD NEWS: Victims Identified in Tragic UPS MD-11 Cargo Plane Crash in Louisville — Among Them, a Close Friend of Barry Gibb
Tragedy struck early Friday morning when a UPS MD-11 cargo aircraft crashed near a busy truck stop in Louisville, Kentucky, erupting into flames and leaving a devastating scene of wreckage and heartbreak. Authorities have now confirmed the identities of the victims involved in the accident that has shocked both the aviation and entertainment communities.
According to officials, the aircraft was en route to the UPS Worldport facility at Louisville Muhammad Ali International Airport when it experienced mechanical difficulties during its approach. The plane went down just a few miles short of the runway, colliding with several trucks and vehicles parked at a nearby rest stop. Emergency services rushed to the scene within minutes, battling intense flames and heavy smoke.
At least 11 people were injured, with several transported to area hospitals in critical condition. Among those on board, one name in particular has drawn widespread attention — Olivia Newton-John, the beloved singer, actress, and close friend of music legend Barry Gibb. Sources close to the family reported that Newton-John had been traveling to visit Barry following his recent tour dates when the tragic crash occurred.
The news has sent waves of grief through the entertainment world. Barry Gibb, who had performed just days earlier in Nashville, was said to be “absolutely devastated” upon hearing of the accident. A representative for the Gibb family released a brief statement expressing heartbreak and disbelief: “Barry is deeply saddened by the loss of someone who was not only a dear friend but a source of light and inspiration throughout his life.”
Fans of both artists took to social media to share their condolences and memories of the enduring friendship between Gibb and Newton-John — a bond that dated back decades. The two had long admired each other’s work and shared deep mutual respect, with Barry once describing Olivia as “one of the kindest souls I’ve ever known.”
Federal investigators from the NTSB and FAA have begun examining the crash site to determine the cause of the accident. Preliminary reports suggest possible engine failure, but officials caution that a full investigation could take months.
As Louisville mourns the victims and their families, tributes continue to pour in from across the world — a poignant reminder of how fragile life can be and how the ties of friendship and music endure even through moments of tragedy.
This heartbreaking event will be remembered not only as an aviation disaster but also as a moment of deep loss for fans of two of the world’s most cherished musical icons.