Congressman Hank Johnson condemns killing of U.S. Air Force Senior Airman Roger Fortson, hundreds attend funeral at New Birth

DECATUR, GA– Today, Congressman Hank Johnson (GA-04) expressed outrage in response to the killing of U.S. Air Force Senior Airman Roger Fortson, a DeKalb County native.

The 23-year-old active-duty airman was fatally shot by a Florida deputy in the doorway of his apartment on May 3. Attorney Ben Crump, who is representing the family of Fortson, said at a May 16 press conference that a front desk worker at the apartment complex where Fortson lived led the deputy to the wrong apartment in search of a couple who were involved in a domestic dispute. Crump said the deputy’s bodycam video and 911 calls reveal the deputy went to the wrong unit. Fortson was in the apartment with his dog, Chloe, facetiming his girlfriend when the incident unfolded. Fortson retrieved his gun, which he was licensed to carry, when he heard repeated knocking at his door but didn’t see anyone through the peep hole because the deputy had stepped aside out of view, Crump said.  Fortson raised his left hand in the air and was holding his gun in his right hand pointed downward when he opened the door. Crump said Fortson did not have his finger on the trigger, the deputy’s body cam video showed. The deputy opened fire, shooting Fortson six times—an act Crump called an execution.  Okaloosa County Sheriff Eric Aden disputes that the deputy went to the wrong apartment, saying the deputy acted in self-defense.    

Congressman Johnson condemned the killing, issuing the following statement:

“I am deeply saddened and outraged by the tragic death of U.S. Air Force Senior Airman Roger Fortson in Florida, yet another Black man senselessly killed at the hands of police, said Johnson. “Despite legally possessing his firearm and holding it pointed at the floor inside his own home, and never once aimed it at the officers. This heartbreaking incident highlights the urgent need for systemic police reform.

“A graduate from DeKalb County’s McNair High School, Fortson served this country with honor and his life was taken too soon. My heartfelt condolences go out to his family and loved ones during this incredibly difficult time and stand in solidarity with them in their pursuit of justice and accountability.” 

Fortson was laid to rest today at New Birth Missionary Baptist Church, located in the city of Stonecrest.  His mother, Meka Fortson, who is a member of New Birth, his father, Roger Wilburn, and other family members bid their loved one farewell during an emotional homegoing celebration. In delivering his eulogy, New Birth Pastor Jamal Bryant demanded justice for Airman Fortson, saying “Roger died of murder. He died of stone cold murder and somebody has got to be held accountable…We’ve got to be able to defend the rights of those who love America and pledge allegiance to the flag.”

Hundreds attended the funeral including many fellow service members. There was a long procession on I-20 to Fortson’s final resting place at Lincoln Memorial Cemetery in northwest Atlanta. 

You can watch the homegoing celebration for Airman Roger Fortson on the link provided. New Birth Pastor Jamal Bryant’s powerful eulogy starts at 1:40:54:  https://www.facebook.com/NewBirthMBC1/videos/1528965031307276

Photos via New Birth Facebook live.