US names six crew killed in refuelling plane crash in Iraq

March 15, 2026

Six US military personnel died when their KC-135 refueling aircraft crashed in western Iraq near the Jordanian border during combat operations against Iran. The victims included three Air Force members and three National Guard members from various states across the US. While Iranian-backed forces claimed responsibility for downing the aircraft with a missile, US officials are investigating the possibility of a midair collision and have stated that neither hostile nor friendly fire was involved.

Who is affected

Six deceased crew members: John Klinner (33, Alabama), Ariana Savino (31, Washington), Ashley Pruitt (34, Kentucky), Seth Koval (38, Indiana), Curtis Angst (30, Ohio), and Tyler Simmons (28, Ohio)
Their families and communities
US Air Force and National Guard personnel
The crew of the second aircraft involved in the incident
US military forces engaged in operations against Iran

What action is being taken

US officials are investigating the incident, including examining whether a midair collision occurred
US military operations against Iran are ongoing

Why it matters

This incident represents a significant loss of life in an escalating military conflict between the US-Israel coalition and Iran that has already claimed 13 American lives in just two weeks. The crash highlights the dangerous operational environment US forces are facing in the region, with confusion over the cause—including contested claims from Iranian-backed militias versus US assessments—underscoring the fog of war. The loss of experienced military personnel and aging but critical refueling aircraft also affects US operational capabilities in the region.

What's next

No explicit next steps stated in the article

Read full article from source: BBC