In a tragic turn of events, Senior Airman Roger Fortson lost his life in a devastating encounter with Florida police. This heartbreaking incident has left a community in mourning and raised questions about police procedures and the use of force. Join us as we explore the details surrounding this unfortunate event, shedding light on the circumstances leading to Senior Airman Fortson’s untimely death.
Senior Airman Roger Fortson Shot And Killed By Florida Police
According to the U.S. Air Force, an airman stationed at Hurlburt Field, Florida’s Special Operations Wing was shot and died on Friday during an altercation with a sheriff’s deputy.
The U.S. Air Force stated in a statement released on Monday that Senior Airman Roger Fortson, 23, passed away at his residence off-base.
Senior Airman Roger Fortson, 23, died at his off-base residence, the U.S. Air Force said in a statement released Monday.https://t.co/Ri8LhyrYMl
— KRCG 13 (@KRCG13) May 7, 2024
The Okaloosa County Sheriff’s Office claimed in a news release on Friday that a deputy responding to the report of a disturbance in progress “reacted in self-defense after he encountered a 23-year-old man armed with a gun.”
Officials added that after being brought to a hospital, Fortson passed away. While the matter was being looked into, the implicated deputy was put on administrative leave.
During his time as a special operations pilot with the 4th Special Operations Squadron, Fortson loaded the 30mm and 105mm cannons on board the gunship during flights as part of the aircrew of the AC-130J Ghostrider.
The Florida Department of Law Enforcement will look into the incident, and the State Attorney’s Office will carry out an independent assessment, according to a statement released late on Tuesday by Okaloosa County Sheriff Eric Aden. He claimed that the incident had “saddened” the sheriff’s office.
“Providing casualty affairs service to the family, supporting the squadron during this tragic time, and ensuring resources are available for all who are impacted” are the top priorities, according to the Air Force’s 1st Special Operations Wing.
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