"Air Force Contractor Fatally Struck by Drone Propeller Due to Lack of Training and Disorientation"

A US Air Force civilian contractor, Stephanie Cosme, was killed after walking into the rotating propeller of a parked MQ-9A Reaper drone at a California airfield. The accident occurred as she was focused on taking data readings with a hand-held device and lost situational awareness, despite co-workers shouting warnings. The investigation identified training deficiencies and rushed testing as contributing factors. The spinning propeller was not visible from her viewpoint, and she likely did not hear the warnings over the engine's roar. Cosme, described as a cherished daughter, sister, fiancé, mother, and friend, was known for her passion for crafting, baking, aviation, and unusual things.