A sensor operator from Creech Air Force Base, Nevada, was found dead off -base on Saturday, a spokeswoman for the 432nd Wing told Air Force Times.
Master Sgt. Travis Parkhurst's body was found on Mount Charleston, about 22 miles from Creech, said Capt. Stephani Schafer. The cause and manner of his death have yet to be determined.
The Clark County Coroner's Office estimated it could take between six and eight weeks to determine the cause of death for Parkhurst, but it usually resolves most cases in 60 days.
Parkhurst, who was just shy of his 38th birthday, had served at the 432nd Wing at Creech for four years, said Schafer, who was not authorized to specify what type of aircraft he was a sensor operator for. The wing partnered with local search teams after Parkhurst went missing on Friday.
"We are saddened by this loss and are now focusing on helping the airman's family, friends and fellow squadron members during this time of grief," Col. Jim Cluff, 432nd Wing commander, said in a statement.
Parkhurst is one of three airmen who have died recently in unrelated events. Cadet 1st Class Alexandre Quiros died Thursday after being found injured in his Air Force Academy dorm. On Sunday, an airman with the 115th Fighter Wing of the Wisconsin Air National Guard fell to his death in Kadena. The airman has not yet been identified.
None of the three cases has been resolved yet.
