The Okaloosa County Sheriff’s Office (OCSO) has terminated Deputy Eddie Duran following an administrative internal affairs investigation into the fatal shooting of Roger Fortson on May 3.
- The investigation determined that the deputy’s use of deadly force was not objectively reasonable and violated agency policy.
According to OCSO’s General Order 04.01 – Response to Resistance, deputies are authorized to use only the amount of force that is objectively reasonable to perform their duties. The policy states that deadly force shall only be used when the officer reasonably believes it is necessary to defend human life or prevent imminent danger of serious physical injury.
The investigation found that the former deputy was dispatched to an in-progress physical disturbance at an apartment complex located at 319 Racetrack Road NW, specifically Unit 1401.
- Upon arrival, the former deputy met with an apartment complex employee who confirmed the location of the disturbance.
The former deputy’s body-worn camera recorded his actions as he knocked on the door of Unit 1401 three times and announced “Sheriff’s Office” twice within approximately 40 seconds. When Mr. Fortson opened the door, the former deputy stated he saw Mr. Fortson holding a firearm in his right hand, pointed at the ground.
- The investigation concluded that Mr. Fortson did not make any hostile, attacking movements, and therefore, the former deputy’s use of deadly force was not objectively reasonable under OSCO’s policy.
“This tragic incident should have never occurred,” said Okaloosa County Sheriff Eric Aden. “The objective facts do not support the use of deadly force as an appropriate response to Mr. Fortson’s actions. Mr. Fortson did not commit any crime. By all accounts, he was an exceptional airman and individual.”
The administrative investigation is separate from the ongoing criminal investigation being conducted by the Florida Department of Law Enforcement. Both investigations are required under Florida law after a fatal deputy-involved shooting.
Sheriff Aden emphasized the OCSO’s commitment to ensuring fair and equal administration of the law, safeguarding civil liberties, and preserving public safety. He thanked the dedicated team for their thorough review of the facts and expressed condolences to Mr. Fortson’s family.
The full administrative internal affairs investigation report is available on the Okaloosa County Sheriff’s Office website.
