A 19-year-old airman died on Saturday after slipping at a waterfall in Okinawa, Japan, according to the Air Force.

Airman Shannon Purcell, who joined the service in July 2016, was assigned to the 18th Munitions Squadron at Kadena Air Base.

Purcell fell from Aha Falls, a local waterfall and popular recreation spot on Okinawa. Local divers who witnessed the incident began search efforts immediately and notified authorities, officials said.

Airmen from the 33rd and 31st Rescue Squadrons arrived on the scene around 5 p.m. local time, and the airman was found about 25 minutes later, officials said. She was taken to Naval Hospital Okinawa and pronounced dead at 6:30 p.m. on Saturday.

On Monday, the Kadena Air Base Facebook page posted an article about how to prevent mishaps involving falls. 

According to the article, the Air Force is encouraging leaders to talk with their airmen about "hazards, protective methods and Air Force safety policies."


Charlsy Panzino covers the Guard and Reserve, training, technology, operations and features for Army Times and Air Force Times. Email her at cpanzino@militarytimes.com.  

About Charlsy Panzino

Charlsy is a Reporter and Engagement Manager for Military Times. Email her at cpanzino@militarytimes.com.

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