MCCONNELL AIR FORCE BASE, Kan. – An Airman from McConnell Air Force Base died in an accident on Monday in Wichita.
Just after 1p.m. on Monday, officers and emergency crews responded to the area of Burton and Custer Avenues for a reported electrocution incident, according to a statement from Wichita Police.
A caller reported seeing a tree trimmer, later identified as Technical Sergeant Thomas Gillam, 38, of the 22nd Aircraft Maintenance Squadron.
He unresponsive in an aerial bucket while a nearby tree was on fire. According to police, initial indications are that the aerial bucket came into contact with power lines. The Wichita Fire Department used a bucket truck to remove Gillan from the aerial bucket. Sedgwick County Emergency Medical Services transported Gillan to a local hospital where he was pronounced deceased.
Gillan served as the Flight Chief for the Atlas Support Flight, which manages and supplies equipment and tools for McConnell’s aircraft maintenance community.
He was off-duty at the time of the incident.
“Our hearts go out to the fiancé and family, and there are no words that can heal the pain that this sudden loss brings to all of us,” said Col. Joe Wall, commander of the 22nd Air Refueling Wing. “Tom was a valued and beloved member of our McConnell team.”
McConnell AFB helping agencies, Chaplains and First Sergeants spread out across the base Monday and Tuesday, focusing on the McConnell maintenance community and working with fellow Airmen impacted by the sudden loss.”
“The Wingman Concept has never more apparent at McConnell than it is today,” said Wall. “The loss of one of our own is never easy. During these difficult times, we have to be there for each other and help each other through the loss. Our absolute number one priority is to support his family, friends, fellow Airmen and loved ones who are struggling through this difficult time.” Funeral services have not been finalized at this time.