As previously noted, an F-16C crashed during a training mission out of Nellis AFB, NV.  As a commenter previously mentioned, the Air Force later said it had “conclusive evidence” the pilot went down with the aircraft.

The pilot has been identified as Capt Eric Ziegler, a 2003 USAFA graduate and combat experienced F-16 fighter pilot, who leaves behind a wife, Sarah, and 9-month old daughter, Anna.  Ziegler was reportedly an operational test and evaluation pilot with the 422nd Test and Evaluation Squadron, and had recently been selected for the prestigious USAF Weapons School at Nellis.

His family released a statement saying

Eric was a man of character and faith who deeply loved his family as well as flying. His sense of humor, spontaneity, faith, zest for life, love of family and country are the hallmarks of his personality. He was a true son of the United States.

Whether training or combat, the profession of arms and the profession of aviation remain dangerous fields.

May God be with his family.