Air Force releases results of on-duty fatality Ground Accident Investigation

by Air Force Global Strike Command
Public Affairs

9/6/2013 - BARKSDALE AIR FORCE BASE, La. -- The Air Force has completed its investigation into an incident in which an Airman died at Whiteman AFB, Mo. The report discusses factors which may have played a role in the incident.

Staff Sgt. Roderick Davenport, a 23-year-old Airman assigned to the 509th Security Forces Squadron at Whiteman AFB, Mo., collapsed during the run portion of his Air Force fitness assessment April 9, 2012, and subsequently died after being transported to a local hospital. There were no other injuries resulting from this incident.

Sgt. Davenport joined the Air Force Aug. 1, 2007, as a Security Forces Specialist. He attended Air Force Basic Training at Lackland AFB, Texas, prior to his assignment at Whiteman as the police services desk sergeant.

The 509th Security Forces Squadron is part of the 509th Bomb Wing (BW) located at Whiteman AFB, Mo. Its mission is to serve as a global strategic force capable of delivering traditional and precision guided munitions; as well as acting as a key nuclear deterrent. The Bomb Wing includes approximately 5,500 military members as well as 2,800 civilian employees who operate, maintain, and manage the wing's fleet of B-2 Spirit stealth bombers.

Air Force Global Strike Command, parent unit for the 509th Bomb Wing, conducted the ground accident investigation.

AFGSC's report said the toxicology report for the Airman was negative, and the cause of death is listed as undetermined. However, the pathologist did note the presence of sickle cell trait, and stated that this was likely a contributing factor in the Airman's death.

"Our thoughts and sincerest sympathies are with Sgt. Davenport's family," said Brig. Gen. Thomas Bussiere, 509th Bomb Wing Commander. "This was a tragic situation for everyone, and Sgt. Davenport's loss continues to be felt by the Air Force family. We held him in the greatest affection and respect."