Identified: Airman Killed Falling from Football Stadium Rafters in Front of Crowd

Fall during stadium demonstration

Patterson fell from the Alamodome’s ceiling during a rappelling demonstration on Saturday. He was treated on the field before being taken to hospital, where he later died. Witness Adrian Corey told KSAT he had started recording because he expected a demonstration. He said the crowd grew more animated as it began, then became quiet and the band stopped playing.

Patterson’s Air Force service

Patterson was from Fort Stewart, Georgia, and had served for 15 years. He was a tactical air control party instructor assigned to the 6th Combat Training Squadron, Detachment 2, at Joint Base San Antonio.

Investigation and game decision

Nellis Air Force Base confirmed that an investigation into the incident is underway. Brigadier General Scott C. Mills, commander of the 57th Wing, said the loss was deeply felt across the unit and that its focus was supporting Patterson’s family, loved ones and fellow airmen.

The conference said it continued the game after consulting both participating member institutions and considering its bylaws. A statement attributed to an unnamed woman also expressed support for Patterson’s family, fellow airmen and others affected.