National Attorney Ben Crump Addresses Atlanta Airman’s Death at Press Conference
On Thursday, nationally recognized civil rights and personal injury attorney, Ben Crump, alongside the grieving family of Senior Airman Roger Fortson, conducted a press conference at New Birth Missionary Baptist Church in Stonecrest, providing updates on the tragic case of Fortson’s untimely death.
The Case
Fortson, a 23-year-old senior airman on active duty, was shot down by a sheriff’s deputy in Florida on May 3. The airman, who had enlisted post his honors graduation from high school, reportedly had no criminal record, Crump’s office confirmed. He was a well-respected member of the Air Force and was beloved by his community.
In the press conference, Crump disclosed that the deputy fired at least six rounds at Fortson. Vowing, “We’re not going to let them sweep Roger Fortson under the rug,” the attorney claimed that the deputy not only arrived at the wrong apartment but also used excessive force, resulting in what he termed as Fortson’s “execution”.
The Incident
According to the body camera video released the previous week, the deputy was seen knocking three times and identifying himself twice before the fatal incident unfolded. Crump insisted that Fortson didn’t hear the knocks and opened the door holding his legally owned firearm pointed downwards. Crump also claimed that the deputy was already informed about responding to a domestic violence case between a male and a female, further strengthening his statement that the deputy was at the wrong apartment as Fortson was alone except for his dog at the time.
Despite the case still being under investigation, there is electronic evidence and statements from Fortson’s girlfriend, who was on a call with him during the incident, suggesting that the deputy didn’t issue warnings before opening fire.
Family’s Emotional Plea
The deceased airman’s family members, still mourning his loss a day before his funeral, expressed their sorrow and demanded justice. His niece, Londyn Fortson, emotionally shared, “They took my uncle from me, and I just want justice for him.” Fortson’s sister, Ravyn Wilburn, and Harmoni Fortson both reflected on his caring nature and how deeply he will be missed.
Fortson’s mother, Meka Fortson, passionately pledged to fight for justice for her son, stating, “He had a mama that’s a poor black single mom, and I’ll walk through the fire for justice.”
She described Fortson as a beacon of light and vowed to ensure that his name remained unblemished, defiantly stating, “He will not be put to rest in darkness because he was light.”
Looking to the Future
The grieving family has announced that Fortson’s wake will be held on Thursday between 12 p.m. to 7 p.m., followed by his funeral service at 11 a.m. on Friday. Pastor Jamal Bryant is scheduled to deliver the eulogy at the funeral, which will be livestreamed on the church’s YouTube page and website.
The deputy involved in the incident is currently on administrative leave as the case continues to be under investigation.
