Family Seeks Civil Rights Representation in Fatal Shooting of Black U.S. Air Force Member by Florida Police

The recent shooting and killing of 23-year-old Senior Airman Roger Fortson by Florida police has sparked outrage and calls for justice from his family and civil rights advocates. The incident, which occurred when deputies burst into Fortson’s home and shot him six times after he retrieved his legally-owned gun in self-defense, has raised questions about police conduct and use of force.

Civil rights attorney Benjamin Crump, known for representing victims of police brutality, held a press conference to shed light on the circumstances surrounding Fortson’s death. According to Crump, Fortson was alone at home when someone aggressively knocked on his door without announcing themselves. Fortson, concerned for his safety, retrieved his gun before police barged in and fatally shot him.

The family of Fortson, along with Crump, are demanding the immediate release of body camera footage related to the incident to uncover the truth behind the shooting. They believe that Fortson, who was not causing any disturbance during a FaceTime call with a friend, may have been mistaken for someone else by the deputies.

This tragic incident has drawn comparisons to the killing of Amir Locke in Minneapolis, where SWAT officers shot him while he was sleeping with his licensed firearm nearby. Both cases highlight the need for accountability and transparency in police actions, as well as the ongoing fight for justice in cases of police violence against Black individuals.

As investigations by the Florida Department of Law Enforcement and State’s Attorney’s Office are launched, the community awaits answers and justice for Roger Fortson and his grieving family.