An airman stationed at the Special Operations Wing at Hurlburt Field, Florida, was fatally shot during an incident with a sheriff’s deputy, according to the U.S. Air Force.
Senior Airman Roger Fortson, 23, passed away at his off-base residence, according to a statement released by the U.S. Air Force on Monday. The tragic incident occurred at his home in Chez Elan Apartments, which is approximately five miles away from the air base, as reported by WKRG.
According to a news release from the Okaloosa County Sheriff’s Office on Friday, a deputy responded to a disturbance in progress and had to defend himself when he came across a 23-year-old man who was armed with a gun.
Officials said that Fortson was taken to the hospital, where he tragically passed away.
Fortson began his active duty service on November 19, 2019, as a member of the 4th Special Operations Squadron. Task and Purpose reported that his squadron is part of the 1st Special Operations Wing, which is based at Hurlburt Field. Among the nine flying squadrons in the wing, only two specialize in operating the AC-130 gunship.
The 1st Special Operations Wing of the Air Force has stated that their main focus is to provide casualty affairs service to the affected family, offer support to the squadron during this tragic period, and ensure that necessary resources are accessible for everyone affected.
The sheriff’s office stated that the deputy has been put on paid administrative leave while a formal investigation is undertaken.
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