Ellsworth mourns loss of Airman

  • Published
  • 28th Bomb Wing Public Affairs
ELLSWORTH AIR FORCE BASE, S.D. --  Chief Master Sgt. Robert E. Hoyt died at approximately 11:30 a.m., Jan. 21 of an apparent self-inflicted gunshot wound. Chief Hoyt, 43, was superintendent of the 28th Security Forces Squadron.

Chief Hoyt, a native of Vero Beach, Fla., joined the Air Force in August 1987, and had been stationed at Ellsworth since May 2011.

"Our most heartfelt condolences go out to Chief Hoyt's family," said Col. Mark Weatherington, 28th Bomb Wing commander. "The loss of one of our Airmen is tragic for everyone, and our leadership is focused on helping our Airmen and families affected by this loss. Our thoughts and prayers continue to be with the Chief's grieving family during this difficult time."

The cause of the incident is under investigation, and the Air Force cannot say at this time whether the shot that killed Chief Hoyt was accidental or a suicide.