ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. – The U.S. Air Force has confirmed the identity of the airman who was fatally shot in a tragic incident early Saturday morning near Truman Gate at Kirtland Air Force Base. The deceased has been identified as Airman Basic Brion Teel-Scott, 27, from Bordentown, N.J. Teel-Scott was assigned to the 377th Security Forces Squadron, and his untimely death has left a profound impact on his fellow service members, friends, and family.
The incident occurred on February 22, 2025, when Teel-Scott was involved in an altercation that led to his tragic death. According to the Air Force, the confrontation began when security personnel attempted to detain Teel-Scott, who reportedly tried to flee the scene. The situation escalated, culminating in gunfire, and Teel-Scott was fatally wounded. A second airman was also injured during the encounter, suffering a gunshot wound to the hand. The identity of the injured airman has not been released, but military officials have confirmed that he is receiving medical treatment.
The events leading up to the shooting remain under investigation, and authorities are working diligently to determine the full circumstances surrounding the incident. Military officials have stated that the altercation occurred at approximately 2 a.m. near Truman Gate, a prominent entrance to the base. As base security personnel responded to the situation, the encounter quickly escalated, and a pursuit began off-base. During the pursuit, shots were fired, ultimately resulting in Teel-Scott’s death. Local law enforcement agencies are working alongside military investigators to piece together the details of the tragic event.
Col. Michael Power, commander of the 377th Air Base Wing and Installation, issued an official statement expressing his condolences to the family and friends of Airman Basic Brion Teel-Scott. Col. Power acknowledged the difficulty of losing a service member, particularly under such tragic circumstances. “Losing a member of your team is never easy, but the circumstances of this incident make it that much harder,” Col. Power said. “Additionally, we are ensuring our injured defender, the Wingmen of both members, and our base community receive the best possible care and support.”
The loss of a fellow airman has sent shockwaves through the Kirtland Air Force Base community, with many expressing grief and disbelief over the tragic events. Teel-Scott, who was assigned to the 377th Security Forces Squadron, was part of a team tasked with ensuring the safety and security of the base and its personnel. His colleagues, many of whom worked alongside him in the Security Forces Squadron, have described him as a dedicated and hard-working airman who was committed to his role in protecting his fellow service members and the base.
In the aftermath of the incident, base officials have reiterated their commitment to providing support for the members of the 377th Security Forces Squadron and the larger Kirtland community. Counseling and support services have been made available to all personnel affected by the incident. The Air Force has also assured the public that all necessary measures will be taken to ensure the well-being of the injured airman and the service members who were involved in the altercation.
As the investigation continues, military authorities have stated that they are working closely with local law enforcement to gather evidence and ensure a thorough review of the events that led to the fatal shooting. The investigation is expected to take some time, as investigators work to piece together the details of the altercation, the attempted detention, and the events that transpired in the pursuit that followed. Local law enforcement has pledged its full cooperation with the military, and further updates will be provided as new information becomes available.
In the meantime, the base has focused on providing support to the families and colleagues of those involved. While the identity of the second injured airman has not been disclosed, the Air Force has confirmed that he is receiving medical care and is expected to recover from his injuries. The medical staff at Kirtland Air Force Base is closely monitoring his condition and ensuring he receives the necessary care to aid in his recovery. Additionally, the families of both airmen have been informed of the incident and are being offered assistance during this difficult time.
The tragic death of Airman Basic Brion Teel-Scott has raised important questions about the circumstances surrounding the altercation and the use of force in such situations. As part of the ongoing investigation, military authorities and law enforcement officials are reviewing all aspects of the incident, including the actions of the involved parties, the responses of security personnel, and the decisions made during the course of the altercation. The goal is to determine exactly what transpired and to ensure accountability, transparency, and justice in the wake of this tragedy.
While the investigation continues, the Kirtland Air Force Base community is united in its grief and support for the families of those affected by the shooting. Teel-Scott’s passing has left a profound impact on those who knew him, both professionally and personally. His colleagues in the 377th Security Forces Squadron remember him as a committed, brave, and loyal airman who was always ready to serve and protect his fellow service members.
The tragic events of February 22, 2025, have cast a shadow over the Kirtland Air Force Base community, but they have also served as a reminder of the dangers faced by those who serve in the military. The incident highlights the risks that military personnel face in the line of duty, even in situations that may seem routine or under control. For those who serve in security roles, the potential for escalation and the need to make split-second decisions are a part of everyday life, and tragedies such as this one are a stark reminder of the sacrifices made by service members to protect their communities.
As the investigation moves forward, the Jackson community, along with the families and loved ones of those involved, await further details. In the meantime, the memory of Airman Basic Brion Teel-Scott lives on in the hearts of those who knew him and the Kirtland Air Force Base community. His passing is a reminder of the risks faced by those who serve in the military and the enduring commitment to service, duty, and honor that defines their work.
For now, the community mourns the loss of a young man who was dedicated to his job and to the people he served. His memory will be honored, and the investigation into the events of that fateful morning will continue, as military and law enforcement officials work to bring clarity and justice to the situation.
