U.S. Air Force Captain Found Deceased off the Coast of Destin Identified as Instructor Pilot

The U.S. Air Force captain who went missing and was found deceased off the coast of Destin has been identified as Capt. Nicholas Brown, an instructor pilot based out of Eglin Air Force Base. The 34-year-old Brown, a devoted father and husband from Austin, Texas, was a member of the 58th Fighter Squadron at Eglin.

The Okaloosa County Sheriff’s Office issued an aqua alert for Brown on Friday night, and on Saturday, authorities confirmed that his body had been recovered. The tragic news was met with deep sorrow and condolences from both the military and local community.

Col. Dave Skalicky, commander of the 33rd Fighter Wing, expressed his condolences, saying, “Our deepest sympathies and condolences go out to Capt. Brown’s family, friends, fellow Nomads, and all those affected by this tragic loss. Our focus right now is ensuring we care for those closest to him and provide all the support and resources we can to our Nomads and families during this difficult time.”

Details surrounding Brown’s death are still under investigation. He was reported missing while free diving in the Gulf of Mexico near Destin, prompting a joint search effort by the U.S. Coast Guard and the sheriff’s office.

In response to the devastating news, a GoFundMe page was set up to assist Brown’s family. The page describes him as a devoted father and husband, and it has already raised over $85,000 as of Sunday.