LRAFB Airman dies in off-base motorcycle crash

Published Sept. 2, 2021
19th Airlift Wing Public Affairs

LITTLE ROCK AIR FORCE BASE, Ark. -- An active-duty Airman assigned to the 19th Civil Engineer Squadron, Little Rock Air Force Base, Arkansas, was killed during an off-base motorcycle crash in Gordonsville, Tennessee, Sept. 1, 2021.

The deceased Airman has been identified as Airman 1st Class Robert E. Heffernan, 22, of Mebane, North Carolina. Heffernan entered the Air Force on March 12, 2019, and arrived at LRAFB on Sept. 3, 2019. Heffernan served as a pavements and equipment apprentice.

“We are devastated by the tragic loss of one of our Black Knights, and I know this grief extends across the wing,” said Col. Angela Ochoa, 19th Airlift Wing commander. “Our hearts are heavy and our thoughts and prayers are with Bobby’s family and friends during this unfathomable time.”

Wing chaplains, mental health professionals and counselors are available to assist those in need. Information on LRAFB support services can be found at www.littlerock.af.mil.

For media queries, please contact 19th Airlift Wing Public Affairs at 501-987-6744 or 19awpa@us.af.mil. Information regarding the accident investigation can be directed to the Tennessee Highway Patrol.