The NFL world is once again reminded that life can change in an instant. Earlier this week, tragedy struck Louisville, Kentucky, when a UPS cargo plane loaded with 38,000 gallons of jet fuel

crashed shortly after takeoff from Muhammad Ali International Airport on Tuesday evening.

According to investigators, the aircraft’s left engine detached during takeoff, triggering a massive explosion that sent debris raining across the industrial zone south of the airport. The crash site erupted into flames, with plumes of black smoke visible for miles. The fire engulfed nearby facilities, including several small businesses, before firefighters were able to bring it under control late that night. Officials have since confirmed at least 14 fatalities and warned that the death toll could rise as recovery operations continue.

TERRIFYING: Dashcam video shows the moment the UPS cargo plane crashed in Louisville, Kentucky, earlier this week, killing 14 people and igniting a fireball that struck two nearby businesses.

UPS has temporarily grounded 9% of its fleet “out of an abundance of caution.” pic.twitter.com/HzQC9eBDxm — Fox News (@FoxNews) November 8, 2025

Witnesses described a terrifying scene as the MD-11 aircraft lifted briefly into the air before plummeting and exploding near a petroleum recycling plant. Dozens of emergency personnel, including the

Louisville Fire Department, worked through the night to contain the inferno, fueled by thousands of gallons of jet fuel. The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) has begun its investigation, confirming that a full mechanical inspection of the aircraft’s engines and flight data recorders is underway.

Among those critically injured in the disaster was a man employed at one of the nearby industrial facilities hit by debris, a man who happens to be the uncle of San Francisco 49ers defensive lineman Yetur Gross-Matos

. Family sources revealed that the victim, whom Yetur describes as “a second father,” was working a late shift when the explosion occurred. He was rushed to the University of Louisville Hospital, where he remains in critical condition with severe burns and internal injuries.

After receiving the devastating news, Yetur Gross-Matos immediately informed the 49ers organization of his decision to take personal leave. Though he was expected to be activated from Injured Reserve this week, a potential return many fans had been anticipating, Gross-Matos requested time away to fly home and be with his family in Kentucky.

The 49ers responded with complete understanding and support. Head coach Kyle Shanahan spoke about the situation with empathy and respect during Wednesday’s press conference:

“There are moments that make football feel so small. Yetur’s family is living through something heartbreaking right now, and as an organization, we want him to know that we’ve got his back. Football can wait, family comes first. Everyone here is praying for his uncle’s recovery and for Yetur’s strength in this difficult time.”

Gross-Matos, known among teammates for his quiet determination and work ethic, released a brief but emotional statement through the team:

“My uncle has been like a father to me since I was a kid. He taught me how to stay grounded and never give up, even when life gets tough. Right now, he needs me, and I need to be there. I want to thank Coach Shanahan, my teammates, and the 49ers organization for their love and understanding. Please keep my family and all the victims’ families in your prayers.”

Sources within the organization confirmed that the 49ers have decided to keep Gross-Matos on IR for at least another week, allowing him the time and privacy he needs. Teammates reportedly gathered after practice to send a video message of encouragement, with several players, including

Fred Warner and Nick Bosa, expressing their support publicly on social media.

Across the NFL community, messages of sympathy poured in under the hashtag #PrayForYetur, as fans from all teams joined in solidarity. Many recalled Gross-Matos’s inspiring personal story, losing his father at a young age, and noted the emotional weight of him now facing another family tragedy.

The 49ers organization also announced plans to hold a moment of silence before Sunday’s game against the Rams at Levi’s Stadium, honoring not only the victims of the Kentucky UPS plane crash

but also showing compassion for those affected by the tragedy nationwide.

As the investigation into the crash continues and families in Louisville grieve, the story of Yetur Gross-Matos serves as a reminder that behind every player’s jersey is a human being, one who feels loss, love, and the strength that comes from a team standing behind him.