An airman based at the Special Operations Wing at Hurlburt Field, Florida, was tragically shot and killed on Friday during an incident involving a sheriff's deputy. Senior Airman Roger Fortson, 23, lost his life at his off-base residence, as confirmed by the U.S. Air Force in a statement released on Monday.
The Okaloosa County Sheriff's Office reported that a deputy, responding to a disturbance in progress, acted in self-defense when faced with a 23-year-old man armed with a gun. Fortson was rushed to a hospital following the altercation but succumbed to his injuries. The deputy has been placed on administrative leave as authorities conduct a thorough investigation into the circumstances surrounding the shooting.
Fortson was a member of the 4th Special Operations Squadron, serving as a special missions aviator. His responsibilities included loading the 30mm and 105mm cannons of the squadron's AC-130J Ghostrider gunship during missions.
Sheriff Eric Aden of Okaloosa County announced that the Florida Department of Law Enforcement will lead the investigation, with the State Attorney's Office overseeing an independent review of the incident. The sheriff's office expressed deep sorrow over the tragic event.
The Air Force's 1st Special Operations Wing emphasized its commitment to providing support to Fortson's family, offering assistance to the squadron during this difficult period, and ensuring that necessary resources are available to all affected parties.
