An Air Force commando died Saturday after falling approximately 170 feet from the rafters of the Alamodome during a pregame demonstration at a University of Texas at San Antonio (UTSA) football game. The incident occurred before the game between UTSA and Navy, which was part of the school’s Salute to Armed Forces and Veterans event.

The airman, assigned to the 6th Combat Training Squadron, Detachment 2, was participating in a fast-rope rappelling demonstration alongside three other service members. The stunt involved descending from the roof of the Alamodome, whose ceiling height is roughly 170 feet. Videos shared on social media show the airman losing control and sliding down the rope uncontrollably before falling to the ground in front of an estimated 23,297 spectators.

Emergency medical personnel provided treatment to the airman on the field for approximately 10 minutes before he was transported to a nearby hospital, where he later died from his injuries. According to eyewitness reports, UTSA staff formed a semicircle around him immediately following the fall, and the stadium fell silent as the incident unfolded. The demonstration was scheduled as part of the pregame coin toss ceremonies and caused a delay of about 10 minutes before the game resumed.

A university spokesperson expressed deep sorrow over the tragedy, extending condolences to the airman’s family and military colleagues. The statement also noted that wellbeing services were being activated to support students, faculty, and staff who might be emotionally impacted by the event. The American Athletic Conference, which oversees UTSA’s athletic programs, also released a statement expressing sadness and confirming that it had consulted with all relevant parties, including the participating institutions, Alamodome management, and local authorities, to review the circumstances surrounding the fall.

UTSA quarterback Owen McCown spoke about the incident after the game, offering his “thoughts and prayers” to the airman’s family and acknowledging the emotional weight carried by players and others present. UTSA ultimately won the game 38-34 against Navy.

The investigation into the precise cause of the fall remains ongoing, as officials continue to assess safety protocols for similar demonstrations at large-scale events.