Officials have released early findings in the investigation, while the mayor confirmed how many lives were lost in the aftermath of the cargo plane crash.

Federal investigators have confirmed that a UPS cargo plane’s left engine detached during takeoff before the aircraft crashed just beyond the runway at Louisville Muhammad Ali International Airport, killing several people. The harrowing incident quickly sparked reactions on social media.

Video footage, physical evidence, and initial analysis have guided the National Transportation Safety Board’s (NTSB) early conclusions.

Flight Struggled After Liftoff

The crash reportedly occurred at approximately 5:15 p.m. on November 4, 2025, involving a McDonnell Douglas MD-11F en route to Honolulu.

NTSB spokesperson Todd Inman explained that while the plane was able to clear the runway fence, it struggled shortly after. “The plane lifted off and gained enough altitude to clear the fence at the end of Runway 17R. Shortly after clearing that fence, it made impact with structures and the terrain off of the airport property,” he said.

Extreme Force Behind Engine Failure

The plane’s violent impact and the separation of the left engine caused significant damage. “Now, this engine was on the left side of the airplane when it came off. That’s a 5-ton engine that was thrown across the runway and into the grass area on the right side,” said CBS News’ Kris Van Cleave, underscoring the extreme forces involved.

Video footage from the runway revealed flames and smoke from the right wing, potentially due to debris from the failed left engine. “So, it is possible that there were issues with two of the plane’s three engines as it was trying to take off,” Van Cleave added.

Flight Recorders Found Intact

Despite intense flames from the crash, NTSB investigators have identified and examined the plane’s black boxes. “You could very easily tell that it was a black box by two types of cylinders on top,” Inman said.

The boxes were exposed to heat, but investigators remain optimistic about data recovery. Ingman added, “Luckily, they were not in a post-impact fire for multiple days or on the bottom of the ocean. So while the fire may have been intense, it is built to withstand that.”

Inman noted that airport security footage captured the moment the engine separated during takeoff. “We have viewed airport CCTV security coverage, which shows the left engine detaching from the wing during the takeoff roll,” he confirmed.

Mayor Shares Update on Crash Victims

As the investigation continues, Louisville Mayor Craig Greenberg addressed the public about the crash, confirming that 12 people died in the incident. He said, “We believe that 3 of them are likely the crew and then 9 others, all of whom are those 9 are unidentified at this point in time.”

The mayor also mentioned that 15 families were seeking information at the family assistance center operated by Louisville Metro Police (LMPD) at their training facility on Taylor Boulevard.

The crash drew widespread reaction across social media. “How can that happen? They all go through thorough safety inspections before leaving the ground!! 😱😢😢😢😢,” one stunned viewer wrote. Another speculated, “Looks like sabotage or a maintenance error,” while a third warned, “Look into the mechanics I’ve said this is not normal !”

A netizen reflected, “Those poor pilots doing everything they could to save the airplane and they’re lives. Prayers for all of those effected [sic] by the crash. ✝️” Another questioned, “Do you think it might have something to do with the fact that the plane has been flying since 1991?”

One commenter shared, “Prayers for the families that lost a loved one as well as the entire UPS family.” Another added, “That is so horrific, how absolutely terrifying for those on board.”

This follows earlier reports from November 5, when the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) confirmed it would join the NTSB in the case, and local officials provided initial details about the crash and emergency response.

FAA Issues Statement as Investigators Scope the Crash Site

In an official statement shared on social media, the FAA noted, “The FAA and NTSB will investigate. The NTSB will lead the investigation and will provide all updates.” Officials also emphasized, “This information is preliminary and subject to change,” as details continue to emerge from the crash site.

The crash has sent shockwaves through the local community and beyond. Kentucky Governor Andy Beshear expressed his sorrow in a public post, penning, “Please, pray for the families affected, Louisville and [sic] all of Kentucky. We are hurting right now after a heartbreaking day.”

Authorities Speak on the Tragedy in Initial Press Conference

In a gripping press conference held soon after the tragedy, officials warned that things could worsen before they get better. Governor Beshear also reiterated the aforementioned points and the ongoing nature of the investigation.

“I can’t confirm that there was no specifically hazardous cargo onboard of [sic] the plane that would create an environmental issue for those around the site, but the impact and where it impacted could create those types of situations. So, please, if there is a shelter in place, follow it,” added Beshear.

​​Dozens of Emergency Agencies Swarm the Devastation

Additional agencies involved at the scene include the Kentucky National Guard, Kentucky Office of Homeland Security, the Louisville Fire Department, the Lexington Fire Department, the Bardstown Fire Department, the Shepherdsville Fire Department, Louisville Emergency Management, the Fern Creek Fire Department, and the Pleasure Ridge Park Fire Department.

Fairdale Fire Department, Anchorage Middletown Fire Department, Jefferson Town Fire Department, Airport Police Department, Louisville Metro Police, Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office, Saint Matthews Police Department, Shively Police Department, KSP, Louisville Metro EMS, MSD, Louisville Gas and Electric, and Kentucky Emergency Management are also involved.

At Least Three Dead, and Several More Are Injured, with Numbers Expected to Rise

Initial casualty numbers were also discussed, with the then-current estimated fatalities being three and at least 11 injuries, some severe and being treated by local hospitals. These numbers are expected to grow.

Beshear also confirmed that a victim family reunification center has been established at the Louisville Metro Police Training Academy, located at 2911 Taylor Boulevard. Victim services personnel will be on-site to assist anyone seeking information about loved ones who may have been affected.

Additionally, the United Way is offering shelter and resources, and those impacted are encouraged to call 502-376-6617 for assistance.

Officials Unpack Further Details Surrounding the Harrowing Incident

The area directly hit by the crash reportedly includes two primary businesses: Kentucky Patrol and Recycling and Grade A Autoparts. While Grade A Autoparts has been able to account for most of its staff, two employees remain unaccounted for, and the company is working with officials to provide descriptions.

Due to the open and dynamic nature of these facilities — frequented by customers, contractors, and delivery drivers — the full extent of those present during the crash remains unknown. “There is no direct information about nine employees who were there at the time,” Beshear stated, adding that it may take time before responders can verify the safety of everyone who might have been on-site.

As rescue and recovery efforts continue, the shelter-in-place radius has been expanded. It now includes areas north of the airport, but not limited to, the Ohio River, South Louisville, Old Louisville, and Downtown.

LG&E confirmed that while some of its equipment was damaged, there are currently no major power outages. However, some outages may be initiated for safety.

Nearby, the Ford Motor Company plant was not directly hit, though it experienced temporary power loss. The company’s CEO has been in direct contact with local officials, and all employees are reported safe. The Convention Center, which was preparing for upcoming events, has also enacted shelter-in-place protocols, with security halting further entries to ensure public safety.

Beshear acknowledged the emotional toll of the crash, emphasizing the pain of uncertainty many families are currently facing.

“Anybody who has seen the images and the video knows how violent this crash is, and there are a lot of families that are going to be waiting and wondering for a period of time,” he said. “If this is a family you know, please give them your support. Please give them your prayers, please give them your love.”

The status of the UPS flight crew remains unknown, deepening concerns as the investigation unfolds. “We do not, at the moment, have the status of the crew,” Beshear shared. “Watching that video, I think we’re all very, very worried about them.”

Greenberg, who was out of town at the time of the incident, is reportedly returning immediately and remains fully engaged in the city’s emergency response efforts. According to Beshear, “He is moving heaven and earth to be back […] and his crew behind me is responding as well as I’ve seen any group do.”

Death Toll Continues to Rise as First Responders Do All They Can

Further updates, including airport operations and ongoing safety measures, were expected at an 8:15 p.m. briefing led by Louisville Emergency Management. Meanwhile, authorities urge patience and solidarity as they work to provide answers in the aftermath of this deeply tragic event.

As emergency crews continued working through the night following Tuesday’s catastrophic plane crash in Louisville, updated figures from local and state officials painted an increasingly grim picture. Mayor Greenburg confirmed that at least seven people have died.

Greenberg provided additional context during an evening update. “There are more than a 100 [sic] firefighters from across the region still on the scene working to make it safe for everyone in our community,” he stated.

The crash involved a UPS MD-11 cargo aircraft carrying more than 38,000 gallons of fuel. The fact that the plane went down shortly after takeoff reinforces what aviation experts often point out: takeoffs and landings are the most dangerous phases of flight.

Amid the growing heartbreak, messages of support continue to pour in from across the city. The Muhammad Ali Center, located in the heart of Louisville, issued a heartfelt statement expressing solidarity with those affected.

“[Our] hearts go out to the pilots, crewmembers, families and [sic] businesses,” their statement reads. “We are saddened to learn that there have been multiple confirmed casualties and injuries due to the incident.”

The Center also extended gratitude to first responders, “As emergency responders work throughout the evening and in the days ahead, our heartfelt thanks go out to those who keep our community safe every single day.”

With the death toll rising and dozens injured, the emotional toll continues to weigh heavily on the Louisville community, as families, businesses, and city officials brace for further updates amid a still-unfolding tragedy.

Horrific Footage and Images Show the Devastating Impact of the Crash

Disturbing surveillance footage and videos shared by people show the sheer force of the crash’s impact and its aftermath. These captured the exact moment the aircraft plunged from the sky, veering low and fast over a lot filled with parked cars before slamming into structures just beyond the frame.

In a flash, a towering fireball erupts, engulfing the background in flames and thick black smoke. In the seconds following the impact, walls of fire surged across the horizon, spreading rapidly and consuming everything in their path.

A Singer-Songwriter Provides an Account of What He Witnessed

As images of fire and devastation continued to circulate, those inside Louisville Muhammad Ali International Airport experienced the unfolding tragedy from a different vantage point. Among them was Josh Mitcham, a singer and songwriter who was preparing to board a flight around the same time the UPS cargo aircraft crashed nearby.

A “stay-in-place” order was issued while Mitcham and others were already seated on their plane. The gravity of the situation became apparent quickly.

“We didn’t really know what happened,” he told CNN. “The captain came over and said that there had been an accident and that it wasn’t good and that they recommended that we go ahead and get off the plane.”

From his window seat, Mitcham noticed thick, dark smoke billowing into the sky — though he didn’t initially know the source. It wasn’t until later that he learned the smoke stemmed from the tragic crash just outside. He and fellow passengers deboarded the aircraft, and with flights suspended in the wake of the incident, Mitcham rebooked for the following day.

The disruption delayed his travel plans to England, where he was set to begin a ten-day music tour. Though shaken by the experience, Mitcham expressed gratitude for his safety in the wake of such a horrifying event.

“There’s some people lost their lives tonight, and, you know, I’m still here [sic],” he acknowledged. “So no matter what happens, I’m good, and the people on my flight are safe, and it could have been a whole lot worse for us. For those people, it was terrible.”

All known details thus far about the recent tragic crash have been unveiled by authorities, including an account from a man who was boarding another flight at the Louisville airport.

A routine Tuesday evening transformed into a horrific tragedy when UPS Flight 2976 crashed shortly after takeoff near Louisville, Kentucky, on the evening of Tuesday, November 4, 2025, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) confirmed.

FAA Issues Statement as Investigators Scope the Crash Site

The incident occurred around 5:15 p.m. local time after the McDonnell Douglas MD-11 aircraft departed from Louisville Muhammad Ali International Airport en route to Daniel K. Inouye International Airport in Honolulu.

In an official statement shared on social media, the FAA noted, “The FAA and NTSB will investigate. The NTSB will lead the investigation and will provide all updates.” Officials also emphasized, “This information is preliminary and subject to change,” as details continue to emerge from the crash site.

The crash has sent shockwaves through the local community and beyond. Kentucky Governor Andy Beshear expressed his sorrow in a public post, penning, “Please, pray for the families affected, Louisville and [sic] all of Kentucky. We are hurting right now after a heartbreaking day.”

Authorities Speak on the Tragedy in Initial Press Conference

In a gripping press conference held soon after the tragedy, officials warned that things could worsen before they get better. Governor Beshear also reiterated the aforementioned points and the ongoing nature of the investigation.

“I can’t confirm that there was no specifically hazardous cargo onboard of [sic] the plane that would create an environmental issue for those around the site, but the impact and where it impacted could create those types of situations. So, please, if there is a shelter in place, follow it,” added Beshear.

​​Dozens of Emergency Agencies Swarm the Devastation

Additional agencies involved at the scene include the Kentucky National Guard, Kentucky Office of Homeland Security, the Louisville Fire Department, the Lexington Fire Department, the Bardstown Fire Department, the Shepherdsville Fire Department, Louisville Emergency Management, the Fern Creek Fire Department, and the Pleasure Ridge Park Fire Department.

Fairdale Fire Department, Anchorage Middletown Fire Department, Jefferson Town Fire Department, Airport Police Department, Louisville Metro Police, Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office, Saint Matthews Police Department, Shively Police Department, KSP, Louisville Metro EMS, MSD, Louisville Gas and Electric, and Kentucky Emergency Management are also involved.

At Least Three Dead, and Several More Are Injured, with Numbers Expected to Rise

Initial casualty numbers were also discussed, with the then-current estimated fatalities being three and at least 11 injuries, some severe and being treated by local hospitals. These numbers are expected to grow.

Beshear also confirmed that a victim family reunification center has been established at the Louisville Metro Police Training Academy, located at 2911 Taylor Boulevard. Victim services personnel will be on-site to assist anyone seeking information about loved ones who may have been affected.

Additionally, the United Way is offering shelter and resources, and those impacted are encouraged to call 502-376-6617 for assistance.

Officials Unpack Further Details Surrounding the Harrowing Incident

The area directly hit by the crash reportedly includes two primary businesses: Kentucky Patrol and Recycling and Grade A Autoparts. While Grade A Autoparts has been able to account for most of its staff, two employees remain unaccounted for, and the company is working with officials to provide descriptions.

Due to the open and dynamic nature of these facilities — frequented by customers, contractors, and delivery drivers — the full extent of those present during the crash remains unknown. “There is no direct information about nine employees who were there at the time,” Beshear stated, adding that it may take time before responders can verify the safety of everyone who might have been on-site.

As rescue and recovery efforts continue, the shelter-in-place radius has been expanded. It now includes areas north of the airport, but not limited to, the Ohio River, South Louisville, Old Louisville, and Downtown.

LG&E confirmed that while some of its equipment was damaged, there are currently no major power outages. However, some outages may be initiated for safety.

Nearby, the Ford Motor Company plant was not directly hit, though it experienced temporary power loss. The company’s CEO has been in direct contact with local officials, and all employees are reported safe. The Convention Center, which was preparing for upcoming events, has also enacted shelter-in-place protocols, with security halting further entries to ensure public safety.

Beshear acknowledged the emotional toll of the crash, emphasizing the pain of uncertainty many families are currently facing.

“Anybody who has seen the images and the video knows how violent this crash is, and there are a lot of families that are going to be waiting and wondering for a period of time,” he said. “If this is a family you know, please give them your support. Please give them your prayers, please give them your love.”

The status of the UPS flight crew remains unknown, deepening concerns as the investigation unfolds. “We do not, at the moment, have the status of the crew,” Beshear shared. “Watching that video, I think we’re all very, very worried about them.”

Louisville Mayor Craig Greenberg, who was out of town at the time of the incident, is reportedly returning immediately and remains fully engaged in the city’s emergency response efforts. According to Beshear, “He is moving heaven and earth to be back […] and his crew behind me is responding as well as I’ve seen any group do.”

Death Toll Continues to Rise as First Responders Do All They Can

Further updates, including airport operations and ongoing safety measures, were expected at an 8:15 p.m. briefing led by Louisville Emergency Management. Meanwhile, authorities urge patience and solidarity as they work to provide answers in the aftermath of this deeply tragic event.

As emergency crews continued working through the night following Tuesday’s catastrophic plane crash in Louisville, updated figures from local and state officials painted an increasingly grim picture. Mayor Greenburg confirmed that at least seven people have died.

Greenberg provided additional context during an evening update. “There are more than a 100 [sic] firefighters from across the region still on the scene working to make it safe for everyone in our community,” he stated.

The crash involved a UPS MD-11 cargo aircraft carrying more than 38,000 gallons of fuel. The fact that the plane went down shortly after takeoff reinforces what aviation experts often point out: takeoffs and landings are the most dangerous phases of flight.

Amid the growing heartbreak, messages of support continue to pour in from across the city. The Muhammad Ali Center, located in the heart of Louisville, issued a heartfelt statement expressing solidarity with those affected.

“[Our] hearts go out to the pilots, crewmembers, families and [sic] businesses,” their statement reads. “We are saddened to learn that there have been multiple confirmed casualties and injuries due to the incident.”

The Center also extended gratitude to first responders, “As emergency responders work throughout the evening and in the days ahead, our heartfelt thanks go out to those who keep our community safe every single day.”

With the death toll rising and dozens injured, the emotional toll continues to weigh heavily on the Louisville community, as families, businesses, and city officials brace for further updates amid a still-unfolding tragedy.

Horrific Footage and Images Show the Devastating Impact of the Crash

Disturbing surveillance footage and videos shared by people show the sheer force of the crash’s impact and its aftermath. These captured the exact moment the aircraft plunged from the sky, veering low and fast over a lot filled with parked cars before slamming into structures just beyond the frame.

In a flash, a towering fireball erupts, engulfing the background in flames and thick black smoke. In the seconds following the impact, walls of fire surged across the horizon, spreading rapidly and consuming everything in their path.

A Singer-Songwriter Provides an Account of What He Witnessed

As images of fire and devastation continued to circulate, those inside Louisville Muhammad Ali International Airport experienced the unfolding tragedy from a different vantage point. Among them was Josh Mitcham, a singer and songwriter who was preparing to board a flight around the same time the UPS cargo aircraft crashed nearby.

A “stay-in-place” order was issued while Mitcham and others were already seated on their plane. The gravity of the situation became apparent quickly.

“We didn’t really know what happened,” he told CNN. “The captain came over and said that there had been an accident and that it wasn’t good and that they recommended that we go ahead and get off the plane.”

From his window seat, Mitcham noticed thick, dark smoke billowing into the sky — though he didn’t initially know the source. It wasn’t until later that he learned the smoke stemmed from the tragic crash just outside. He and fellow passengers deboarded the aircraft, and with flights suspended in the wake of the incident, Mitcham rebooked for the following day.

The disruption delayed his travel plans to England, where he was set to begin a ten-day music tour. Though shaken by the experience, Mitcham expressed gratitude for his safety in the wake of such a horrifying event.

“There’s some people lost their lives tonight, and, you know, I’m still here [sic],” he acknowledged. “So no matter what happens, I’m good, and the people on my flight are safe, and it could have been a whole lot worse for us. For those people, it was terrible.”

At this time, we wish to extend our most heartfelt condolences to the families who have lost loved ones as a result of the crash. We hope for their healing amid their time of grief. We also keep those injured in our thoughts as they continue to recover from such a harrowing incident.

The sudden loss of the LeRoy family has drawn heartfelt tributes, including a deeply personal message from a relative who shared stories of love, loyalty, and a late-night coffee run that now holds lasting meaning.

A small aircraft crash in Nampa, Idaho, claimed the lives of three members of the LeRoy family on July 27, 2025. The victims were identified as Brandon LeRoy, 43; Jestene LeRoy, 30; and their 23-month-old son, Paxton LeRoy.

According to the Canyon County Coroner’s Office, Brandon and Jestene were pronounced dead at the scene after suffering multiple blunt force injuries. Despite life-saving efforts, they could not be revived.

The Ada County Coroner confirmed that their toddler, Paxton, died later that evening at St. Luke’s Medical Center in Boise due to injuries sustained in the crash.

The crash occurred near Oak Street, close to the Nampa airport. The Nampa Police Department is leading the investigation. No further official details have been released at this time.

Witnesses in the area described the moment of impact. Leon Garcia, a local resident, recounted, “The police came and told them to stay away cause it might explode.” His wife added, “Like somebody hit a car really hard. I was watching TV.”

Another Oak Street neighbor shared, “This one sounded normal at first and then all of the sudden something kinda told me something is not right there, cause it was making a kinda funny noise.”

Tyler Barnhart, a property renter by profession, noted what he believed to be the pilot’s attempt to minimize damage.

“The pilot did a really good job and turning in the building he avoided the house for sure,” explained Tyler. “There are several obstacles — the tree, the power line and the other shed — and the top of the house, and he missed all that.”

He also shared a message for the victims’ loved ones. “I pray for you guys. I am sorry about the situation.”

Shortly before the crash, Jestene had posted a TikTok video showing her son Paxton riding a bike around the plane. Viewers have since returned to the video, leaving emotional comments.

One person wrote, “not me thinking ‘this sounds dangerous’ then seeing th update [sic].” Another added, “What an eerie feeling watching them be around this plane, not knowing what was coming in their near future. RIP.”

A third commenter shared, “The crash itself was heartbreaking….seeing this just makes it’s worse. Praying for the family [sic].”

Others remarked on the significance of the moment, writing, “hide your life people’s eyes can break mountains [sic],” and “evil eye is real folks hide your blessings [sic].”

As the community processes the tragic loss, Brandon’s cousin, Jeremiah LeRoy, shared a heartfelt tribute that painted a vivid picture of the man, his family, and the impact they had on those around them.

Jeremiah recalled that Brandon had been a part of his life from the start — even welcoming him and his twin brother into the world as an infant. He described Brandon as more than a cousin — a “quiet protector” and a steady presence who was “never too far or too busy” to help.

Their childhood was marked by shared sleepovers, soccer games, family vacations, and endless laughter.

Jeremiah remembered Brandon as strong, supportive, and full of life, someone whose presence lifted those around him, both on and off the soccer field. From their early days in recreational sports to competitive club play in their teens, Brandon stood out as a skilled athlete and reliable teammate.

As they grew older, that bond remained strong. Jeremiah noted that when he launched a semi-professional soccer team in 2023, Brandon was one of the first to join the ownership team and support the project financially, without hesitation.

Brandon’s strength extended far beyond sports. He devoted his adult life to serving others, first as a firefighter and paramedic, then as a nurse, and eventually as a nurse anesthetist.

“Brandon was the person you wanted at your side in a crisis — calm, capable, and completely present,” expressed Jeremiah.

He remembered Brandon’s generosity and sense of adventure vividly. One story stood out: a late-night trip to a Louisville, Kentucky, parking lot where Brandon bought an espresso machine from a couple in a parked truck.

Though the setting was tense, Brandon was thrilled. He had a love for quality coffee and a knack for finding bargains, something he had picked up during yard sale outings with his parents. Brandon bought the machine as a gift — a gesture Jeremiah called “classic Brandon.”

Jeremiah also shared how seamlessly Jestene had joined their family just under three years ago. He further mentioned, “She fit into our lives as if she’d always been a part of it. Not long after, their son Paxton was born — a joyful little boy, full of light. Together, they were building a life marked by love, purpose, and promise.”

Despite the grief, he expressed hope, drawing strength from his Christian faith. He emphasized that they believe this is not the end, and that one day, they will be reunited.

Jeremiah ended his tribute by saying, “Though their time here was far too short, their legacy is everlasting — a legacy of love, courage, joy, and selfless service. A sacred reminder to live each day with purpose, with gratitude, and with unwavering faith.”

Jeremiah’s words offer a glimpse into the family’s enduring influence and the deep sense of loss felt by those closest to them.

The tragedy involving Mitt Romney’s sister-in-law occurred about a week after another former U.S. senator endured a harrowing incident when his and his wife’s house caught on fire.

The sister-in-law of former U.S. Senator and presidential hopeful Mitt Romney was found dead in chilling circumstances. Carrie Romney, a 64-year-old resident of Valencia, was discovered lifeless next to a parking garage in Santa Clarita’s Town Center on Friday evening, October 10, 2025. A representative for the former senator issued a statement about the tragedy.

Parking Garage Becomes Scene of Tragedy in Los Angeles Suburb

The location, a suburb situated just north of Los Angeles (L.A.), became the center of a growing investigation as law enforcement responded to the scene. According to a spokesperson from the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department, a formal death investigation is underway.

While officials have not confirmed whether foul play is suspected, sources with knowledge of the case indicated that preliminary findings suggest Carrie may have either jumped or fallen from the structure.

The Los Angeles County medical examiner has officially listed her cause of death as “deferred,” noting that toxicology test results are still pending.

Authorities are expected to release more details once the medical examiner’s report is finalized. As of now, the case remains open and active.

From Presidential Campaigns to Personal Grief

Given the high-profile connection to the Romney family, the investigation has drawn significant public attention. Aside from his former role as a U.S. senator, Carrie’s brother-in-law, Mitt, ran for president in 2008, seeking the Republican nomination.

However, he withdrew following the primaries and endorsed John McCain. Four years later, Mitt ran again in 2012, securing the Republican Party nomination, but he lost in the general election against former U.S. President Barack Obama.

Now, instead of political endeavors, the spotlight has turned to profound personal grief. The loss has prompted an outpouring of sorrow from the Romney family.

“Our family is heartbroken by the loss of Carrie, who brought warmth and love to all our lives. We ask for privacy during this difficult time,” a representative for Mitt said in a statement to People.

Additional Details Surrounding the Case

Authorities confirmed that deputies from the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department responded to an emergency call at approximately 8:30 p.m. PT on Friday. The call led them to a parking structure located in the 24500 block of Town Center Drive in a Valencia parking garage.

Additionally, a department representative later confirmed to People that the woman found at the location had either jumped or fallen from the garage — a statement consistent with earlier reports from unnamed sources.

At this time, we wish to extend our most heartfelt condolences to Mitt, the entire Romney family, their friends, community, loved ones, and all who knew and loved Carrie as they mourn such a significant loss. We hope for their healing amid their grief. RIP, dear Carrie.

Back-to-Back Tragedies Shake America’s Political Class

The heartbreaking loss of Carrie comes days after another former U.S. senator endured a separate personal crisis — a fire that tore through the home he shares with his wife, adding to a somber period marked by back-to-back tragedies within the political sphere.

A quiet beach morning turned into a blazing nightmare as South Carolina Circuit Court Judge Diane Goodstein’s serene marshfront home went up in flames — leaving her husband injured, neighbors scrambling, and investigators racing to uncover the truth behind the fire that shook Edisto Beach.

Flames Rip Through Secluded Retreat as Prominent Judge’s Family Caught in Chaos

On October 4, 2025, an unthinkable blaze erupted at Diane’s Edisto Beach home, triggering an urgent investigation by the State Law Enforcement Division (SLED). The horrifying fire, caught on video and widely circulated, left victims hospitalized and a community reeling.

Thick smoke towered over Edisto Island as flames consumed the secluded property in the Jeremy Cay Community — a tranquil, tree-lined enclave that quickly transformed into a scene of terror. The fire’s fury forced former South Carolina Senator Arnold Goodstein, Diane’s husband, to leap from the rear of the blazing home into the treacherous marshland below.

Neighbors Turned Into Heroes as Former U.S. Senator Trapped in the Marsh

Neighbor Tom Peterson, who had been nearby when he noticed the thick black smoke, recounted speaking directly with the South Carolina judge. She had been walking her dogs along the beach when the fire erupted. By the time she returned, her husband was injured and trapped in the wetlands.

The terrain made access extremely difficult for emergency responders — prompting neighbors and paramedics to band together in a high-stakes effort to retrieve him. Using a canoe and a rope, the group managed to pull Arnold from the marsh. According to St. Paul’s Fire District Chief, two others were also rescued from the same area.

In total, three individuals sustained injuries serious enough to require hospitalization. One of them was airlifted to the Medical University of South Carolina for treatment, though the full extent of their injuries had not been disclosed as of October 5. Thus far in the SLED’s investigation, the cause of the fire remains unknown.

Additionally, authorities have not yet released any information regarding potential sources of ignition or whether foul play is suspected. Public records confirm that the home is owned by the Goodsteins, whose names are well-known in South Carolina’s legal and political communities.

Court Officials and Witnesses Break Their Silence

In a press release, the South Carolina Supreme Court acknowledged the incident, indicating it had been made aware of the situation. While officials have yet to declare whether the fire was accidental or deliberately set, the investigation in and of itself has intensified public scrutiny — particularly in light of recent claims that the judge had received death threats.

“She’s had multiple death threats over the years,” a fellow judge close to Diane revealed, adding a chilling layer to an already harrowing ordeal.

Though SLED had not publicly named Diane or her family as victims nor released an official cause, sources say arson has not been ruled out. The blaze began at approximately 11:30 a.m. on Saturday at the couple’s three-story marshfront property at 18 Planters Retreat. Eyewitness Angie Moore posted online at 1:35 p.m. that the house was “completely engulfed in flames.”

Not long after, South Carolina (SC) Chief Justice John Kittredge sent a message clarifying that the disaster stemmed from an “apparent explosion… that resulted in a fire that destroyed the home.”

“Judge Goodstein was walking on the beach when the fire started,” he wrote. “Her husband, Arnie, was in the house with children and perhaps grandchildren. The family had to escape by jumping from a window or balcony. I’m told there were injuries from the fall, such as broken legs.”

According to sources, Arnold in particular suffered multiple broken bones in his hips, legs, and feet. He was the one airlifted to the Medical University of South Carolina in Charleston for emergency treatment. His and Diane’s son, Arnold Samuel Goodstein II, who also sustained serious injuries during the rescue, was also hospitalized.

Security Tightens a Month After Judge’s Legal Battle

The SC chief justice added that SLED Chief Mark Keel is closely monitoring the situation and has pledged to inform judicial leadership of any findings. “At this time, we do not know whether the fire was accidental or arson,” he stated. “Until that determination is made, Chief Keel has alerted local law enforcement to provide extra patrols and security.”

The fire came just over a month after Diane found herself at the center of a politically sensitive legal matter involving voter data and federal oversight.

On September 2, she issued a temporary restraining order halting the South Carolina Election Commission from releasing voter registration data — including partial Social Security and driver’s license numbers — to the U.S. Department of Justice.

The case was brought forward by Calhoun County resident Anne Crooks, who argued that disclosing such information would infringe on her right to privacy. Diane sided with Anne, explaining that “there is a likelihood that immediate and irreparable damage will result to Plaintiff if her personal information data is released in violation of her right to privacy.”

From Legal Power Couple to Victims of Tragedy

The judge’s involvement in high-profile legal matters reflects a long and respected career on the bench. Diane, married to a former House member and state senator who once represented Charleston County as a Democrat and was an attorney for the Charleston County Aviation Authority, began her legal career in the early 1980s.

Her professional accolades span decades of service to the people of South Carolina. After earning her Juris Doctorate from the University of North Carolina School of Law in 1981, she worked as a partner alongside her husband at their family firm, Goodstein & Goodstein, P.A.

In May 1998, she was elected by the South Carolina General Assembly to serve as Resident Circuit Judge for the First Judicial Circuit. She has since served on the Circuit Court Judges Advisory Committee and the Commission on Judicial Conduct, and has long been active in legal education and community service.

Her husband, Arnold, has an equally notable legacy in public service and once served as a Department of Transportation Commissioner. Beyond his political work, he has a decorated military background, earning the Bronze Star during his service as a combat advisor in South Vietnam.

Together, the Goodsteins, who share kids Arnold Samuel II and Eve Schafer Goodstein, are pillars of the Temple Kahal Kadosh Beth Elohim in Charleston, and their life’s work has long centered on public service, community, and justice — all now overshadowed by a fiery ordeal still cloaked in unanswered questions.