Okaloosa County Sheriff's Office has terminated Deputy Eddie Duran following the completion of an administrative internal affairs investigation into the fatal shooting of Air Force Senior Airman Roger Fortson. The investigation determined that Deputy Duran's use of deadly force was not objectively reasonable and violated agency policy, according to a statement released by the sheriff's office on Friday.

The administrative internal affairs investigation conducted by the Okaloosa County Sheriff's Office 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. It is important to note that neither investigation targets Mr. Fortson, the deceased Airman.

According to the "object facts" determined by the administrative investigation, Deputy Duran responded to a physical disturbance at an apartment complex located at 319 Racetrack Road NW. After arriving at the complex, Deputy Duran spoke with an employee who informed him that the disturbance was reported to be taking place in Unit 1401. All actions of Deputy Duran were recorded by his body-worn camera.

Upon reaching the door of Unit 1401, Deputy Duran listened for any signs of disturbance inside the apartment but heard none. He knocked on the door without announcing his presence, only to hear a voice inside saying, "Something to the effect of it's the f****** police." Deputy Duran then knocked two more times and announced his presence as a representative of the Sheriff's Office.

When Mr. Fortson opened the door, Deputy Duran reportedly observed him holding a firearm in his right hand, although the firearm was pointed at the ground. The investigation concluded that Mr. Fortson did not physically resist or point the gun in Deputy Duran's direction.

Sheriff Eric Aden expressed his condolences to Mr. Fortson's family and stated that the use of deadly force was not justified given the objective facts of the case. He emphasized the commitment of the Okaloosa County Sheriff's Office to uphold professional and safety standards while ensuring fair and equal administration of the law.

Since the incident occurred, the sheriff's office has been fully accountable and transparent, complying with statutory requirements, providing public statements, releasing body-worn camera footage, meeting with Mr. Fortson's family and legal counsel, and maintaining open communication with the U.S. Air Force and the community.

The termination of Deputy Duran underscores the importance of adherence to the standard of objective reasonableness in law enforcement responses and serves as a reminder of the risks inherent in being a first responder. The Okaloosa County Sheriff's Office will continue its commitment to the mission of preserving public safety, safeguarding civil liberties, and maintaining the trust of the community.

The investigation reports and other related records can be accessed for full review on the Okaloosa County Sheriff's Office website.