Testimony begins in trial of ex-deputy charged in airman's death

A courtroom packed with supporters of Roger Fortson heard the opening of testimony Wednesday in the case against former Okaloosa County Deputy Eddie Duran, who is charged in connection with the death of the Air Force airman.

Fortson, stationed at nearby NAS Pensacola, was shot in May 2023 during a welfare check at his Fort Walton Beach home. The case has drawn significant community attention and support for Fortson's family.

Duran, a former member of the Okaloosa County Sheriff's Office, faces charges stemming from the shooting. The trial is underway in Okaloosa County, which borders Santa Rosa County to the west of Escambia.