Five people died and five others sustained injuries when an Amazon Air cargo plane veered off the runway at Miami International Airport on Sunday afternoon. The aircraft, identified as Prime Air Flight 7598, was arriving from Luis Munoz Marin International Airport in San Juan, Puerto Rico, when the incident occurred around 2 p.m. local time.

Miami-Dade County Mayor Daniella Levine Cava confirmed the fatalities and injuries during a news conference Sunday evening. The names of the deceased and those injured have not yet been released. The plane also reportedly struck multiple vehicles on a nearby road, according to rescuers.

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) stated that the Boeing 767-300 cargo aircraft, operated by 21 Air, overran the runway during its landing. Preliminary data from Flightradar24 indicated the plane was traveling at approximately 128 mph as it departed the runway.

The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) announced it is dispatching a team, led by NTSB Chairwoman Jennifer Homendy, to investigate the cause of the crash. Both the FAA and Amazon have acknowledged the incident and are cooperating with authorities.

Amazon expressed deep sorrow over the loss of life. "We're heartbroken to learn that five people lost their lives in today’s incident at Miami International Airport," said Kelly Nantel, an Amazon spokesperson. "Our deepest sympathies go out to the families, loved ones, and all those affected by this devastating loss." The company confirmed it is working closely with officials to understand the circumstances.

Keith Winters, CEO of 21 Air, also released a statement conveying devastation. "Our deepest condolences are with the families and loved ones of those who lost their lives," Winters stated. "Our immediate priorities are supporting those affected, assisting the authorities, and ensuring that accurate information is communicated as it becomes available." He added that the company is cooperating fully with the NTSB, FAA, and local authorities.

The incident occurred on a Sunday afternoon, disrupting operations at one of the busiest airports in Florida. The exact sequence of events leading to the runway excursion remains under investigation by the NTSB and FAA.

Further details regarding the condition of the injured and the impact on airport operations are expected as the investigation progresses. The NTSB's findings will be crucial in determining the factors that contributed to this tragic accident.