Aviano Air Base, Italy -- At approximately 9:30 a.m., July 12, 2016, the body of Staff Sergeant Halex Hale was found in the Livenza River near Sacile, Italy.
Hale was confirmed dead by Italian officials after his body was discovered. The cause of death is under investigation.
“We are deeply saddened by this tragic loss of life,” said Brig. Gen. Lance Landrum, the 31st Fighter Wing commander, “Our thoughts and prayers are with his family, fellow Airmen and friends.”
Hale was assigned to the 31st Fighter Wing at Aviano Air Base, Italy and was a member of the wing’s Communications Squadron.
Hale’s hometown is Middletown, Indiana.
We’ll continue our efforts to support Italian officials as they work this investigation. Further details will be released when they become available. Any questions pertaining to this investigation should be directed to the Pordenone Carabinieri, Maj Salvino Macli, at salvino.macli@carabinieri.it by phone (+39) 0434 372530.