Who is Tyler Simmons? Ohio pilot killed in Iraq refueling plane crash, 6 killed

The aircraft, identified as a KC-135 Stratotanker, crashed Thursday while supporting operations in the region. U.S. Central Command said the crash occurred after an unidentified incident involving two aircraft flying in friendly airspace, and that the second aircraft was able to land safely.

Ohio political leaders expressed condolences after news of the crash broke. Joyce Beatty said in a post on X that she was “heartbroken” to learn that Simmons was one of the six service members killed.

“My heart goes out to Taylor’s family and the families of the five other service members who were killed, including two other Ohioans,” Beatty wrote on the X. “Here in Columbus and across the country, we will always remember the sacrifice of Taylor and his fellow soldiers,” he added.

Meanwhile, Mike DeWine said in a social media post that three of the six pilots killed in the crash were from Ohio. this Pentagon Said that the incident resulted in as many deaths in the United States as Epic Fury Operation At least 13 military personnel.

He attended Eastmoor Academy High School in Columbus and graduated in 2015, according to Columbus City Schools. While at school, he also played football.

The family remembers Simmons as someone whose personality left a lasting impression on those around him. His cousin Tracy Peaks told 10TV Simmons was known for his unique smile and positive attitude.

“He had a million-dollar smile. When people see my cousin, they think, that smile is going to take him over and take him to his dream job,” Pickles said.

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Simmons initially worked as a security guard before his superiors encouraged him to train as a crane operator, 10TV reported, citing relatives. The role involves transferring fuel from tankers to other military aircraft while in flight.

His mother, Cheryl Simmons, told the outlet that aviation has long been a passion for her son. She recalled that when he started working inside aircraft as a boom operator, he knew this was the career he wanted to pursue.

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“Once he got in the back of that plane, it was over,” Cheryl Simmons said, adding that her son once told her he planned to retire from the position before eventually flying commercial aircraft.

Columbus Mayor Andrew Ginther issued a statement on Facebook saying the city mourns Simmons’ death and honors his service.

“Our deepest condolences go out to the family and friends of Tyler Simmons, who lost his life too soon in a recent accident in Iraq,” Ginser said, adding that the city honored his courage and dedication to his country.