Air Force Trainee Dies At Lackland

FORT SAM HOUSTON, Texas – An Air Force basic trainee died after completing a physical training test Wednesday morning at Lackland Air Force Base, officials said.

Steven D. Williams, 26, of Detroit, died at Southwest General Hospital in San Antonio after collapsing on the base. He had just completed a round of training that included sit-ups, push-ups, and a one-and-a-half mile run. An official cause of death will be determined after an autopsy.

“This is a tragic event and the men and women of the 37th Training Wing are grieving this loss. The entire Air Force family sends its condolences to the family and friends of the Airman,” said Colonel Eric Axelbank, 37th Training Wing commander in a release. “We hope the family finds comfort in knowing that his performance in Basic Military Training was commendable and that he earned the respect of his instructors and his fellow trainees."

Williams held the position of dorm chief -- the highest leadership position among trainees.