Sheppard Air Force Base Instructor Dies in Freak Accident

T-6A Texan II waits to taxi onto the runway Nov. 1, 2017, at Sheppard Air Force Base, Texas. (Christopher Carranza/Air Force)Photo byUSAF

USAF Captain John Robertson of the 80th Operations Support Squadron succumbed to his injuries early Tuesday morning, May 14.

On Monday, May 13, Robertson was severely injured during ground operations when the ejection seat of the T-6A Texan II aircraft in which he was activated.

“This is a devastating loss for Captain Robertson’s family and loved ones, and for the entire 80th Flying Training Wing,” said Col. Mitchell J. Cok, the acting wing commander. “Captain Robertson was a highly valued Airman and instructor pilot. Our deepest condolences go with all who knew and loved him.”

A student who was also sitting in the plane did not eject and was not injured, reported Sheppard spokesperson George Woodward.

An interim safety board investigation was convened immediately after the incident, officials stated. A full Air Force Safety Investigation Board is expected to be in place later this week.

The board will release that report when the investigation is complete, SAFB officials announced.