Sports · October 19, 2026
Backlash follows decision to continue UTSA-Navy game after airman's deadly fall
Tech. Sgt. Ian Patterson, a 15-year U.S. Air Force veteran and decorated instructor, died after falling from the Alamodome ceiling during a pregame rappelling demonstration before the UTSA-Navy football game on October 17. The incident occurred during UTSA’s annual 'Salute to Armed Forces and Veterans' game. Patterson was treated on the field and transported to a hospital, where he later died. Despite the incident, the game proceeded after a 10-minute delay, resulting in a 38-34 UTSA victory. The American Athletic Conference stated the decision to continue was made before Patterson's death was confirmed, citing a desire to follow military notification protocols and avoid speculation.
Read the original coverage
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Reported by multiple outlets
- Tech. Sgt. Ian Patterson died following a fall while rappelling from the Alamodome ceiling.
- The incident occurred during a pregame ceremony for the UTSA vs. Navy football game.
- Patterson was a 15-year Air Force veteran and instructor assigned to the 6th Combat Training Squadron.
- The game was delayed by approximately 10 minutes but ultimately played to completion.
- Patterson was treated on the field and transported to a local hospital where he was pronounced dead.
- An investigation into the cause of the fall is currently underway.
Reported by only some outlets
- Patterson was the 2022 Air Force Special Warfare Enlisted Instructor of the Year.
- The crowd at the Alamodome was estimated at over 23,000 people.
- The decision to continue the game was supported by both participating institutions.
- UTSA won the game 38-34.
Confirmed
- Tech. Sgt. Ian Patterson died from injuries sustained during a pregame rappelling fall at the Alamodome.
- The incident happened on October 17 during the UTSA-Navy game.
- Patterson was an instructor with the 6th Combat Training Squadron.
- The game proceeded after a short delay despite the medical emergency.
Reported
- The decision to play was made before the death was confirmed to avoid family distress and speculation. (American Athletic Conference)
- The team only knew there was an 'incident' causing a 10-minute delay before starting. (Jeff Traylor (UTSA Coach))
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