Sumter police investigating death of Shaw Air Force Base airman. No foul play suspected

An airman assigned to the 20th Fighter Wing at Shaw Air Force Base was found dead at his off-base home Thursday afternoon, according to a statement released by the base.

Senior Airman William N. Uche, 24, was found dead at his off-base residence at approximately 3 p.m. on Thursday according to a news release.

The Sumter Police Department, which is investigating the death, has said that no foul play is suspected.

“We lost a valued member of Team Shaw this week,” said Col. Kristoffer Smith, 20th Fighter Wing Commander. “We extend our deepest condolences to Senior Airman Uche’s loved ones and coworkers as we collectively grieve this loss. We are focused on ensuring we care for the team and provide all the support resources we can to our Airmen and families during this difficult time.”

Uche, originally from Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, was a heating, ventilation, and air conditioning journeyman in the 20th Civil Engineer Squadron. He had served in the Air Force since July 1, 2019, according to the statement.

Ted Clifford

The State

803-771-8315

Ted Clifford is the statewide accountability reporter at The State Newspaper. Formerly the crime and courts reporter, he has covered the Murdaugh saga, state and federal court, as well as criminal justice and public safety in the Midlands and across South Carolina. He is the recipient of the 2023 award for best beat reporting by the South Carolina Press Association.