Air Force officer dies after falling during pregame rappel at Alamodome before UTSA-Navy game
An Air Force officer died at a local hospital after losing control during a pregame rappel demonstration at the Alamodome in San Antonio, Texas, before the UTSA-Navy football game on Saturday, according to Air Force confirmation. The officer was among four participating in a military ceremony tied to UTSA's annual Salute to Armed Forces and Veterans game, and slid down the line before crashing onto the turf. Medical staff on the field treated him before he was removed, and the incident is now under investigation. The American Conference released a statement expressing condolences to the officer's family and colleagues, and said it is working with member institutions to connect those affected with support resources.
The officer appeared to lose control while descending, sliding down the line and crashing to the turf.
Why it matters
For coaches: Coaching staffs at both programs may need to help players process a traumatic event that occurred before their game.
For media: The incident, captured on social media video, raises questions about pregame ceremony safety protocols at college football venues.
For athletes: Players and staff at UTSA and Navy witnessed a fatal on-field incident that may require mental health follow-up support.
Read the full story at Yahoo Sports
Sources
- Yahoo Sports: Service member dies after Alamodome fall before UTSA-Navy football game
- Sporting News · Jeff Hauser: Service member dies after Alamodome fall before UTSA-Navy football game