The U.S. Air Force has identified the airman who died after falling from the rafters of the Alamodome during a pregame rappelling demonstration before Sunday's UTSA-Navy football game. Ian Patterson, a Tactical Air Control Party Instructor assigned to the 6th Combat Training Squadron, Detachment 2, at Joint Base San Antonio, was one of four airmen scheduled to rappel from the rafters to the field about 15 minutes before kickoff as part of UTSA's annual Salute to Armed Forces and Veterans game.

As described by the Air Force, Patterson lost control while descending, slid down the rope and landed hard on the field. Emergency crews rushed to help him before taking him from the field on a stretcher.

He was transported to a local hospital, where he later died from his injuries. The incident delayed the start of the game by about 10 minutes.

Patterson, of Fort Stewart, Georgia, had served for 15 years and was named the Air Force Special Warfare Enlisted Instructor of the Year in 2022. His other achievements included the Air and Space Commendation Medal with three oak leaf clusters, marking a distinguished and dedicated career in military service.

Col. Mills, 57th Wing Commander said: "This tragedy is felt deeply across the 57th Wing. 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."

Military officials and safety teams have launched a comprehensive inquiry to determine the exact technical or mechanical causes behind the rappelling rope failure. The annual Salute to Armed Forces and Veterans game traditionally honors military personnel, making the sudden loss of the experienced instructor an even more poignant and heartbreaking moment for the community.

An investigation into the incident is currently underway, with updates expected once federal safety boards and Air Force investigators conclude their thorough examination of the accident site.