An airman from the U.S. Air Force's Special Operations Wing at Hurlburt Field, Florida, was fatally shot on Friday during an encounter with a sheriff's deputy, according to the U.S. Air Force. Senior Airman Roger Fortson, 23, passed away at his off-base residence, as reported by the Air Force on Monday.
The incident unfolded when a deputy responded to a disturbance in progress and encountered a 23-year-old armed man, leading to a self-defense reaction from the deputy, as detailed in a news release by the Okaloosa County Sheriff's Office on Friday.
Fortson was transported to a hospital where he succumbed to his injuries. The deputy involved has been put on administrative leave while an investigation into the matter is conducted. Fortson served with the 4th Special Operations Squadron as a special missions aviator, responsible for loading the 30mm and 105mm cannons on the squadron's AC-130J Ghostrider gunship during missions.
Okaloosa County Sheriff Eric Aden announced on Tuesday that the Florida Department of Law Enforcement will investigate the incident, with the State Attorney's Office conducting an independent review. Sheriff Aden expressed sadness over the shooting, and emphasized the sheriff's office's commitment to a thorough investigation.
The 1st Special Operations Wing of the Air Force stated that its priorities include providing support to Fortson's family, offering assistance to the squadron during this difficult time, and ensuring resources are available to all affected by the tragedy.