How Did an Airman Die in a Rappelling Accident Before a College Football Game in San Antonio?

Quick answer: A service member died after a rappelling accident at the Alamodome in San Antonio, Texas, before the University of Texas at San Antonio (UTSA) football game against the U.S. Naval Academy on Saturday 17 October 2026.

Key facts

• What: Rappelling accident during a pre-game demonstration
• Where: The Alamodome, San Antonio, Texas
• When: Saturday 17 October 2026, before the UTSA vs U.S. Naval Academy football game
• Reported toll: 1 dead
• Victim: An airman from Nellis Air Force Base, assigned to the 6th Combat Training Squadron, Detachment 2 (name not released)
• Status: Investigation under way

What happened

According to WAFF, the airman was attempting to rappel from the rafters as part of a demonstration before the game. The service member was taken to an area hospital and later died, a Nellis Air Force Base spokesperson said.

The game was the university's annual Salute to Armed Forces and Veterans event. UTSA President Taylor Eighmy said: "Our hearts are heavy following the tragic incident at the Alamodome prior to Saturday's UT San Antonio football game against the U.S. Naval Academy."

Investigation

The incident is under investigation. A Nellis spokesperson did not release the service member's name.

If you are at a stadium event

• Follow announcements: listen to stadium staff and follow any instructions during demonstrations and displays.
• Keep clear of marked areas: stay behind barriers and out of zones set aside for demonstrations.
• Alert staff if you see someone in difficulty: report concerns to the nearest steward or member of staff rather than intervening yourself.
• Keep exits clear: leave aisles and exits unobstructed so emergency teams can reach anyone who needs help.

Source: WAFF — https://www.waff.com/2026/10/18/service-member-killed-rappelling-accident-before-college-football-game/

Frequently asked questions

### Who died in the rappelling accident? An airman from Nellis Air Force Base, assigned to the 6th Combat Training Squadron, Detachment 2. The spokesperson did not release the service member's name. ### Where did the accident happen? At the Alamodome in San Antonio, Texas. ### When did the accident happen? On Saturday 17 October 2026, before the UTSA football game against the U.S. Naval Academy. ### What was the airman doing? Attempting to rappel from the rafters as part of a demonstration before the game, according to WAFF. ### What is happening next? The incident is under investigation.