'Homeless and jobless' | Workers say they haven’t been given a timeline to return after UPS crash

LOUISVILLE, Ky. (WDRB) — Ten days after a fatal UPS plane crash, families and workers are still without jobs, homes and answers as investigators continue combing through the debris.

The road where the plane went down remains blocked, shutting down several nearby businesses and leaving workers in limbo.

Brandon Smith and his son, Wyatt, were inside their custom car shop when the crash erupted just steps away.

“Just working, then no power and loud noises and big fire and you feel it,” Wyatt Smith said.

Smith Chassis & Metalworks sits next to Grade A Auto Parts — the building directly hit. Against the odds, their shop survived. Smith said he’s grateful, but now facing a harsh reality.

“I’m thankful that we're here. I’m thankful that me and my son are both alive,” Brandon Smith said.

“So now I'm homeless and jobless,” he added. “Bills keep coming and we're not making money.”

The crash site remains closed as investigators work. The Smiths have briefly been allowed inside a few times under supervision to grab essentials, but they still have no idea when they can return to their business — or their home, as they live at the shop.

“With not hearing anything it’s a little unsettling,” Smith said.

They’re not alone. Another worker, Shawqi Ahmad, was stopped at the police barricade Friday trying to get answers.

Ahmad, a CDL driver, hasn’t been allowed to retrieve his semi-truck. Without it, he can’t earn a paycheck.

“I have a family. I need to work to pay my bill,” Ahmad said.

He said he’s struggled to get information.

“This guy says email this line, this guy says email this guy, and they don't answer me,” he said.

WDRB suggested he call the city’s hotline for people impacted by the crash.

“Are you needing any help with food … mental health … unemployment insurance?” a hotline worker asked.

“If I can’t take my truck out … maybe I can go work,” Ahmad replied.

Ahmad booked an appointment with the resource center, but like the Smiths — and many others along Grade Lane — he’s still waiting.

“My biggest concern is just the timeline, when can I get back in my building?” Smith said.

Ahmad was not given a timeline at his appointment. A claim was opened for him, but city officials said they cannot help move his truck. The hotline at 502-473-5271 is the city’s main resource for those seeking assistance.

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