SAN ANTONIO, Texas — The service member who died after falling from the rafters of the Alamodome during a pregame military demonstration at a college football game over the weekend has been identified as Tech. Sgt. Ian Patterson, a decorated veteran who served 15 years.
Patterson died following a rappelling accident on Saturday night before the University of Texas at San Antonio hosted Army before 23,000 fans at the Alamodome.
Patterson was one of four Air Force service members participating in the demonstration when he suddenly descended at high speed and struck the field.
Emergency personnel immediately rushed to his assistance, providing medical treatment before transporting him to a nearby hospital, where he was pronounced dead.
Investigators are still examining the circumstances surrounding the fall.
In a statement released Monday, Brig. Gen. Scott C. Mills, commander of the Air Force’s 57th Wing, described Patterson’s death as a devastating loss for the military community.
“This tragedy is felt deeply across the 57th Wing,” Mills said.
“Tech. Sgt. 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.”
Mills said the Air Force was concentrating on supporting Patterson’s family and fellow service members as they mourned his death.
The American Conference later confirmed that officials discussed whether the game should proceed, consulting representatives from the university, Navy, stadium management and local authorities.
Conference officials ultimately decided to continue the game, citing league regulations and concerns about protecting the service member’s family from premature speculation about his condition.
In a statement, the conference said its decision was guided by “respect for the family’s privacy” and the military’s notification procedures.
Before kickoff, the stadium observed a moment of silence, while UTSA eliminated portions of its traditional pregame entertainment.
UTSA went on to defeat Navy 38-34, but the result was overshadowed by the tragedy.
Following the game, UTSA head coach Jeff Traylor acknowledged the emotional impact of what spectators had witnessed.
“You could tell the energy was just gone,” Traylor said. “It just really puts things in perspective. It really does.”
San Antonio Mayor Gina Ortiz Jones, herself an Air Force veteran, also expressed condolences.
“We will keep his family in our prayers. May perpetual light shine upon him,” Jones said.
