Shaw Air Force Base Airman Passes Away at Lake Wateree Published June 24, 2026 20th Fighter Wing Public Affairs SHAW AIR FORCE BASE, S.C. -- Senior Airman Carlen Hailey, assigned to the 20th Fighter Wing, passed away in an off-duty incident at Lake Wateree on Thursday, June 18. Senior Airman Hailey, an Outbound Assignments Technician assigned to the 20th Force Support Squadron, had served in the Air Force since January 3, 2023. “The 20th Fighter Wing is deeply saddened by the tragic passing of one of our Airmen, Senior Airman Carlen Hailey. This is an incredibly heartbreaking loss for the entire Shaw community," said Col. Kevin D. Hicok, 20th Fighter Wing commander. "Our immediate priority is ensuring the well-being of our Airmen and mobilizing all available support resources, including chaplains and mental health professionals, to assist the unit during this difficult time. Our most sincere condolences are with everyone who is grieving, especially Senior Airman Hailey’s family and friends.” Support services, including local chaplains, mental health professionals, and disaster mental health teams, are currently mobilized and available to assist unit members and base personnel. Out of respect for privacy and in accordance with Department of the Air Force policy, no further details regarding the incident will be released. -30-