Pilot dies in F-16 accident

  • Published
  • By 388th Fighter Wing Public Affairs
HILL AIR FORCE BASE, Utah --  Base officials confirmed that an F-16 pilot from the 388th Fighter Wing was killed at about 10:25 p.m. yesterday while flying a training mission at the Utah Test and Training Range about 35 miles south of Wendover, Utah.
"We can now confirm that we have lost a fellow pilot," said Col. Scott Dennis, 388th Fighter Wing commander, during a press conference today. "After several hours of search and rescue efforts, we have identified the pilot at the crash site."
Colonel Dennis said the immediate family was notified and the Air Force's first priority today was to support the pilot's family and the Air Force's family during this time.
"I want to thank everyone for their outpouring of support. I just ask that you keep the pilot's family in your thoughts and prayers," he said.
When the mishap occurred, the pilot was part of a four-ship- of F-16s flying a close air support mission that involved training with ground forces. The wing has temporarily ceased flying operations, but expects to resume flying today.
"Every time we fly a training or combat mission, the safety of our people is a top priority. We lost an irreplaceable member of our Air Force," Colonel Dennis said. "We will do all we can to determine the cause of the mishap to ensure we are doing everything possible to keep our military members free from harm."
A board of officials will convene to determine the cause of the incident. Details will be released as they become available.