SPANGDAHLEM AIR BASE, Germany -- U.S. Air Force Airmen First Class Bradley Haile, 19, and Jacob Blackburn, 20, were killed, and one Airman was injured at approximately 10:16 a.m., Sept. 30, in a car accident on the south side of base along Perimeter Road.
Both deceased Airmen were assigned to the 52nd Civil Engineer Squadron, under the 52nd Fighter Wing.
Haile and Blackburn were confirmed deceased at the crash site. The injured Airman was air-evacuated to Koblenz hospital where he remains in good condition.
“It is with a heavy heart that we must share with you the passing of two of our Airmen,” said Col. David Epperson, 52nd Fighter Wing commander. “As we pay tribute to our fallen brethren, know that they were valuable and highly respected members of our team. Spangdahlem would like to extend our sincerest heartfelt condolences to the friends and families affected by this tragedy.”
Haile is survived by his father Bradley Haile, mother Stephanie Brown and sister Presley Haile.
Blackburn is survived by his father Jerry Blackburn and mother Jennie Guthrie.
The cause of the accident is under investigation.
The Disaster Mental Health Team (452-8285), Chaplains, Mental Health, and the Airman and Family Readiness Center are standing by to help and talk to anyone who may be seeking additional support.
For media queries, contact the 52nd Fighter Wing Public Affairs office at 52fw.paoffice@us.af.mil or 0656561-6555.