MADISON (WKOW) – An F-16 pilot who crashed Wednesday on the Upper Peninsula in Michigan has been reported dead by the 115th War Division of the Wisconsin Air National Guard. According to the Department of Defense’s policy, the 115th Division will not release the pilot’s identity until 24 hours after notifying the next of kin of the service member. “We are deeply saddened by this tragic loss and our thoughts and prayers are with the family during this difficult time,” said Colonel Bart van Ru, commander of the 115th War Division. “Today is a day of mourning, and we mourn the loss of a great pilot and patriot along with the pilot’s family, along with the entire Wisconsin National Guard of the 115th Battalion.” “We are a very close knitting group in the war unit and the loss of one of our own brings immeasurable tragedy to every member of our organization,” he said. The accident happened Tuesday morning during a training mission in the Hiawada National Forest in Michigan. The multi-state, interactive search for the pilot and aircraft immediately followed the crash. The cause of the crash is under investigation. The 115th War Division appreciates the community support provided to its members and will release additional details when they become available. The 115th Fighter Wing will deliver another update early Friday morning.