Former Sheriff’s Deputy found not guilty of manslaughter in fatal shooting of Airman Roger Fortson

A Florida jury acquitted former Okaloosa County sheriff’s deputy Eddie Duran of manslaughter in the 2024 shooting death of Senior Airman Roger Fortson. Duran faced up to 30 years in prison but walked free after jurors reached a unanimous verdict following more than two hours of deliberation.

What happened to Roger Fortson?

Fortson, 23, was inside his Fort Walton Beach apartment on May 3, 2024, when Duran responded to a call reporting a domestic disturbance. Authorities later determined the report was false. Fortson was alone and on the phone with his girlfriend when Duran arrived.

Body‑camera video showed Fortson opening his door while holding a legally owned handgun pointed toward the floor. Duran shouted “Step back!” and fired several shots within seconds. Fortson later died at a nearby hospital.

Trial

Prosecutors argued Fortson posed no threat, pointing to footage showing his gun aimed downward. Assistant State Attorney Mark Alderman said Fortson raised his left arm in a defensive posture and made no aggressive move before he was shot.

Duran testified that he feared for his life and believed Fortson was about to shoot him. He said he saw the firearm at an upward angle and reacted according to his training.

State Attorney and Family Attorney Responds to Verdict

The State Attorney’s Office said in a statement it respected the jury’s decision and noted that prosecutors brought the case because the evidence warranted review. Officials also acknowledged the verdict would cause pain and disappointment for many who viewed Fortson’s death within a broader national context of police encounters.

“It does not diminish the life, service, or humanity of Roger Fortson, and it does not lessen the devastating loss his family, friends, and fellow airmen endured,” the release continued.

Duran was fired weeks after the shooting when an internal investigation found his life was not in danger at the moment he opened fire.

Attorney Ben Crump, who represents Fortson’s family, said in a statement on Friday that this is a “painful moment” for the family, who are “heartbroken” over the not guilty verdict.

“Roger’s life and his service will always matter. His family will keep fighting for him, and we will stand with them as they pursue their civil rights case in federal court and seek accountability for the tragic loss of his life,” Crump said.

Fortson’s family and supporters left the courtroom immediately after the verdict. They continue to pursue a federal civil rights lawsuit over his death.