A service member fell during a pregame aerial display at a college football game in San Antonio Saturday night and later died at a hospital, according to military officials and video verified by NBC News.
Video recorded from the stands shows the soldier descending on a rope from the rafters of the Alamodome before falling to the field.
The serviceman was transported to a local hospital and later died, a Nellis Air Force Base spokesperson said in a statement.
The serviceman was identified as Air Force Tech. Sgt. Ian Patterson, a Tactical Air Control Group instructor from Fort Stewart, Ga., said the base.
Patterson served 15 years and was assigned to the Air Force’s 6th Combat Training Squadron, Detachment 2, according to the release.
His decorations included the Air and Space Commendation Medal with three oak leaf clusters and the Army Commendation Medal, the Air and Space Achievement Medal, and the Army Achievement Medal, each with an oak leaf cluster. In 2022, he was named Air Force Special Warfare Instructor of the Year at the Air Force Headquarters level, the base said.
“Technical Sergeant Patterson and his service meant so much to our wing, as well as the family, friends and teammates who had the privilege of knowing him and serving alongside him,” said Air Force Brig. Gen. Scott C. Mills, 57th Wing commander, said in a statement. “Our team is now focused on standing with Ian’s family, loved ones and fellow Airmen as we navigate this profound loss together.”
The incident remains under investigation.
Videos showed people rushing towards the soldier as he stood still. on the 50 yard line. He was driven off the course in a medical golf cart.
The University of Texas at San Antonio had scheduled events during the game against the Naval Academy to honor service members and veterans. UTSA won after a delayed kickoff.
University and city officials offered their condolences to the service member’s family, fellow service members and all those affected.
“What was supposed to be a day of camaraderie, tradition and celebration was marked by deep sadness,” UTSA President Taylor Eighmy said in a statement.
“The impact of this tragedy extends far beyond those who were present at the Alamodome. It touches families, friends, fellow service members and so many people in our community,” Eighmy said. “My hope is that everyone affected feels the strength of a community that stands with them, shares their grief and surrounds them with genuine care. »
The city of San Antonio, which owns the Alamodome, did not immediately respond to a request for comment Sunday. Mayor Gina Ortiz Jones said on social media that she was saddened.
“We will keep his family in our prayers. May perpetual light shine on him,” she wrote.
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