The Air Force has identified the service member who died after falling during a pregame rappelling demonstration at a University of Texas at San Antonio football game as Tech. Sgt. Ian Patterson, a 15-year military veteran.
Patterson was descending on a rope from the rafters as part of UTSA's annual Salute to Armed Forces and Veterans game on Saturday when he fell onto the field. He was rushed to a local hospital but succumbed to his injuries.
Patterson, a Tactical Air Control Party Instructor from Fort Stewart, Georgia, was assigned to the Air Force's 6th Combat Training Squadron, Detachment 2, according to a statement from Nellis Air Force Base. He was one of four service members scheduled to rappel from the rafters during the demonstration.
Air Force Brig. Gen. Scott C. Mills, commander of the 57th Wing, expressed condolences in a statement: "Tech. Sgt. Patterson and his service mattered immensely to our wing, and to the family, friends, and teammates who had the privilege of knowing and serving alongside him. Our team is now focused on standing beside Ian's family, loved ones, and fellow Airmen as we navigate this profound loss together."
Patterson's distinguished career included multiple decorations, such as the Air and Space Commendation Medal, the Army Commendation Medal, and the Air and Space Achievement Medal. In 2022, he was named the Air Force Special Warfare Enlisted Instructor of the Year.
The incident is under investigation, and the Air Force has not released further details about the cause of the fall.
UTSA also expressed sorrow in a statement posted to social media, saying, "We are deeply saddened by the incident that occurred at the start of tonight's football game. We recognize that members of our campus community may be emotionally affected by this incident and are activating wellbeing services to support our faculty, staff and students."
UTSA football coach Jeff Traylor described the incident as "heartbreaking" and "tragic" while speaking to reporters after the game, according to The Associated Press.
The tragedy has cast a pall over the event, which was meant to honor military service members. The fatal accident has prompted an outpouring of support from the community and the military.
As the investigation continues, the Air Force is providing support to Patterson's family and fellow airmen. This incident underscores the risks inherent in military demonstrations and the profound loss when such events go wrong.
