Roger Fortson

Former sheriff’s deputy charged with manslaughter for killing airman Roger Fortson at Florida home

In August 2024, former Okaloosa County deputy Eddie Duran was charged with manslaughter for the fatal shooting of U.S. Air Force airman Roger Fortson in Fort Walton Beach, Florida. Duran, dispatched to Fortson’s apartment after a false domestic disturbance report, shot Fortson multiple times when he answered the door holding a gun pointed downward. Despite repeated knocks, Duran did not identify himself until just before shooting. Fortson, unarmed apart from his holstered gun, had no criminal record. This case is one of the few instances where a Florida officer faces charges for an on-duty killing.