Air Force Names Tech. Sgt. Ian Patterson Killed In UTSA Fall
The Air Force identified Tech. Sgt. Ian Patterson, who died Saturday after falling 170 feet during a fast-rope demonstration at a UTSA football game.
Trending Newsfeed Staff Writer · Oct 19, 2026 · 2 min read
The Air Force has identified Tech. Sgt. Ian Patterson as the service member who died after falling from the rafters at the Alamodome. This tragic event happened on Saturday before the UTSA football game against Navy. More than 23,000 fans watched as the 15-year veteran fell during a pregame demonstration.
The Fall and the Response
Patterson was part of a four-person team scheduled to rappel from the 170-foot ceiling. Videos circulating on social media showed him sliding uncontrollably down the rope. He struck the turf near the middle of the field during the “Salute to Armed Forces and Veterans” event, according to RedState.
Medical crews worked on the airman for about 10 minutes on the field. He was then moved to a hospital where he sadly passed away. Officials verified his assignment to Detachment 2 of the 6th Combat Training Squadron.
Witnesses Describe the Silence
The crowd went quiet as the band stopped playing immediately after the fall. Witness Adrian Corey told KSAT that the scene turned dead silent very fast. He stated, “Once the band started playing, there was a guy that fell down, and started coming down fast.”
Another witness, Siomara Corey, shared that the moment was very sad for everyone. She told the station, according to the Daily Caller, “It was a very sad moment and we don’t know (his condition).” UTSA officials expressed deep sadness and activated counseling services for students.
A Career of Service
Brig. Gen. Scott C. Mills spoke about the loss felt across the 57th Wing. He noted that Patterson’s service mattered immensely to his family and fellow Airmen. Patterson had earned the Air and Space Commendation Medal with three oak leaf clusters.
He was also named the Air Force Special Warfare Enlisted Instructor of the Year in 2022. The Air Force said he served honorably for 15 years before this accident. An investigation is now open to determine exactly what caused the fall.
Community Grief and Support
San Antonio Mayor Gina Ortiz Jones posted a statement on social media regarding the death. She said, “I am deeply saddened to hear of the passing of an Air Force service member following an unfortunate accident.” The American Conference also released a statement saying they were deeply saddened.
UTSA head coach Jeff Traylor called the scene heartbreaking and tragic. The game was delayed by 10 minutes but eventually started as scheduled. UTSA went on to win the game against Navy with a final score of 38-34.