Hurlburt Field Airman dies in a tragic off-base incident involving an officer

OKALOOSA COUNTY, Fla. (WMBB) – A Hurlburt Field Airman is dead following an officer-involved shooting off base Friday, May 3.

The person was identified as 23-year-old U.S. Air Force Senior Airman Roger Fortson, according to a news release.

On Friday afternoon around 4:30 p.m., an officer responded to a disturbance call on Racetrack Road.

The officer identified himself as a police officer after hearing disturbing noises. The deputy then came into contact with Fortson, who was armed with a gun. The officer then responded in self-defense and shot the person, according to a press release.

Authorities said no officers were injured. However, Fortson was taken to a local hospital and died as a result of his injuries.

Fortson was assigned to the 4th Special Operations Squadron and entered active duty on November 19, 2019.

According to the Okaloosa County Sheriff’s Office, which is the lead investigating agency in this incident, no further information is being released at this time.

The 1st Special Operations Wing will provide family care for the accident victims, support the squadron and ensure resources are available to those affected by this tragic event, officials said.