Thunderbirds pilot who lost life in crash has roots in Valencia

(FOX 11) - The U.S. Air Force confirmed Thursday Maj. Stephen Del Bagno is the pilot who lost his life in a crash Wednesday.

Bagno was a slot pilot for the U.S. Air Force Air demonstrations squad and this was his first season with the Thunderbirds.

He was incredibly experienced with over 3500 total flight hours in over 30 different aircraft.

Wednesday morning his F-16 Fighting Falcon crashed over the Nevada Test and Training Range.

It was a routine aerial demonstration training flight

"We are mourning the loss of Major Del Bagno," said Brig. Gen. Jeannie Leavitt, 57th Wing Commander. "He was an integral part of our team and our hearts are heavy with his loss.

An investigation is still being conducted into what exactly caused the accident.