Service member who died after rappelling incident at UT San Antonio game identified

The service member who died after falling during a pregame aerial demonstration at a college football game has been identified as Tech. Sgt. Ian Patterson, a 15-year military veteran.

Patterson was descending on a rope from the rafters during a pregame rappelling demonstration at a University of Texas at San Antonio (UTSA) football game on Saturday, where he fell onto the field.

He was taken to a local hospital after the fall and later died from his injuries.

Patterson was a Tactical Air Control Party Instructor from Fort Stewart, Ga. He was assigned to the Air Force’s 6th Combat Training Squadron, Detachment 2, according to a statement from the Nellis Air Force Base.

He was one of four service members scheduled to rappel from the rafters as part of UTSA’s annual Salute to Armed Forces and Veterans game.

“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,” Air Force Brig. Gen. Scott C. Mills, 57th Wing commander, said in a statement. “Our team is now focused on standing beside Ian’s family, loved ones, and fellow Airmen as we navigate this profound loss together.”

Patterns earned several military decorations during his 15 years of service, including the Air and Space Commendation Medal, Army Commendation Medal and Air and Space Achievement Medal. He was also named the Air Force Special Warfare Enlisted Instructor of the year in 2022.

The incident is currently under investigation.

“We are deeply saddened by the incident that occurred at the start of tonight’s football game,” UTSA said in a statement posted to social media Saturday.

“We recognize that members of our campus community may be emotionally affected by this incident and are activating wellbeing services to support our faculty, staff and students,” the university added.

UTSA football coach Jeff Traylor described the incident as “heartbreaking” and “tragic” while speaking to reporters after the game, according to The Associated Press.