Florida Deputy Charged with Manslaughter in Fatal Shooting
- Fired Okaloosa County, Florida sheriff's deputy charged with manslaughter for shooting Air Force senior airman in his apartment.
- Roger Fortson was fatally shot by the deputy in his own apartment, leading to the charges of manslaughter.
- The tragic incident resulted in the deputy facing legal consequences for the fatal shooting.
Okaloosa County, Fla. – Eddie Duran, a former sheriff's deputy, has been charged with manslaughter in the shooting death of Air Force Senior Airman Roger Fortson, who was killed in his apartment on May 3, 2024. The charge, confirmed by Gregory Anchors, chief assistant state’s attorney, carries a maximum penalty of 30 years in prison. An arrest warrant has been issued for Duran, who was responding to a domestic disturbance call when the incident occurred. Fortson, 23, was reportedly home alone, engaged in a video call with his girlfriend, and holding a legal handgun when he opened the door to Duran. The deputy shot Fortson multiple times, despite the airman not pointing the weapon at him. Following an internal investigation, Sheriff Eric Aden stated that Fortson did not exhibit any hostile behavior, deeming Duran's use of deadly force as unjustifiable. Duran was subsequently fired on May 31. The Fortson family, represented by attorney Ben Crump, has expressed their outrage, labeling the shooting as a "brutal and senseless killing." Chantemekki Fortson, the victim's mother, voiced hope that the charges would lead to broader changes in law enforcement practices. The Okaloosa County Sheriff’s Office has reiterated its commitment to transparency and accountability in the case, extending condolences to Fortson's family as the legal proceedings unfold.