Palm Bay pilot dies after non-combat incident: DOD

A U.S. Air Force staff sergeant was killed in a “non-combat related incident” at an undisclosed location. The Department of Defense described it as a “non-combat related incident.”

According to the Department of Defense, Sergeant Tristen Wright of Palm Bay died on August 15.

The 28-year-old was assigned to the 27th Special Operations Wing at Cannon Air Force Base in New Mexico.

Wright's awards include a U.S. Air and Space Force Commendation Medal, a U.S. Air Force Achievement Medal with two oak leaves and “C” symbols, an Air Force Good Conduct Medal with one oak leaf, a Global War on Terrorism Medal and a National Defense Service Medal, according to a Cannon Air Force Base press release.

“Tristen was a force for good within the 27th SOLRS and beyond,” said U.S. Air Force Maj. Brent Escay, 27th SOLRS commander in a press release. “He was the type of leader who took the privilege of leading and mentoring Airmen seriously. He cared deeply about the Airmen in his squadron and was a dedicated volunteer in the local community. We will never forget how his infectious smile could light up a room.”

According to the base, Wright was deployed in support of Operation Inherent Resolve.

Base officials said Wright has been in military service since 2016.

The Ministry of Defense says the incident remains under investigation.