Shaw pilot killed in F-16 crash
Officials with Shaw Air Force Base confirmed Tuesday morning that one of their own, Capt. William H. Dubois, originally of New Castle, Colorado, was the F-16 pilot who died this week as a result of a noncombat crash near a coalition base in the Middle East Sunday evening while supporting Operation Inherent Resolve. According to an official release from Shaw AFB, the F-16 aircraft crashed as it was returning to base. First Lt. Keavy Rake with Shaw AFB states the crash is currently under investigation and the cause of the crash is still unknown.
"An investigation board will convene and they'll investigate the crash," Rake explained. "We probably won't be able to confirm anything for at least 30 days because there is just no way of knowing at this time."
Multiple reports on the crash Tuesday morning cited mechanical issues as the cause, but Rake said they haven't confirmed and will continue to look into the evidence, including the weather and combat activity at the time and place of the crash. In October, Air Force officials said a squadron of F-16 fighter jets departed the base near Sumter to join in airstrikes in Iraq and Syria. Dubois, 30, was assigned to the 77th Fighter Squadron at Shaw AFB and is survived by his wife who currently lives in Sumter.
"Losing Capt. Dubois is sad and tragic," said Col. Stephen F. Jost, 20th Fighter Wing commander in a statement. "Our most sincere condolences go out to his family, friends and squadron members during this difficult time. Capt Dubois was a patriot who was willing to put his life on the line every day in service to his nation. He was a valued Airman, pilot and friend of those he touched here at Team Shaw and who deployed with him. He will be greatly missed."
According to Rake, a safety investigation board will also examine the evidence of the crash and will consult air crew and safety experts to help determine the cause and how they can avoid possible similar incidents in the future.