An Air Force Airman has has died after plummeting 170 feet from the Alamodome’s rafters while rapelling during a fast-rope demo. The military officer was part of the rappel team from Detachment 2 of the 6th Combat Training Squadron, headquartered at Nellis Air Force Base, Nevada.
On Saturday (October 17), the airman was repelling from the rafters during a fast-rope demonstration. It was before the UTSA Vs. Navy Game. However, during the demonstration, the airman was repelling down and about halfway through, he lost control.
He slid down the line and crashed to the ground. Immediately, medical personnel tended to his aide. They then transferred him off the field and to a hospital, where he was later pronounced dead. After the game, UTSA football coach Jeff Traylor also spoke out.
RELATED: Six Flags Over Georgia To Reopen Friday As Goliath Coaster Will Remain Closed After Fatal Fall
A Nellis spokesperson confirmed in a statement to USA TODAY that the incident is under investigation. Additionally, UTSA issued a statement following the incident, as did the American Conference. It read:
“We are deeply saddened by the incident that occurred at the start of tonight’s football game. Our heartfelt thoughts and prayers are with the soldier who was affected, his family and his military colleagues. 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. Students who are in need of assistance can contact the university crisis hotline 24/7 at 210-458-4140 and can also access resources through the TimelyCare App. Academic campus employees can get support through the Employee Assistance Program at 800-451-1834. UT Health employees can receive assistance through the Employee Assistance Program at 800-356-3549.”
#Socialites, be sure to check out the post below, then leave us your thoughts in a comment after!