Trial of former deputy charged in the killing of Hurlburt airman may start Monday. This is what’s happened so far:
The manslaughter trial of former Okaloosa County Sheriff’s Deputy Eddie Duran is expected to begin following two years of legal delays, procedural motions, and emotional testimony. Duran faces charges in the fatal May 2024 shooting of Senior Airman Roger Fortson inside Fortson’s Fort Walton Beach apartment.
Judge denies controversial dismissal motions in manslaughter case
Circuit Judge William F. Stone has denied a defense motion to recuse himself, clearing the path for the manslaughter trial of former Okaloosa County Sheriff’s Deputy Eddie Duran to begin on September 28, 2026. Duran faces charges following the May 2024 fatal shooting of 23-year-old Hurlburt Field Airman Roger Fortson.
Defense Makes Immunity Push as Judge Weighs Fate of Duran Murder Case
Former Okaloosa County Sheriff’s Deputy Eddie Duran concluded his bid for Stand Your Ground immunity Wednesday as defense attorneys argued prosecutors failed to overcome evidence that the fatal shooting of Roger Fortson was legally justified. The judge ordered additional legal briefs before deciding whether the case will move forward.
Walton County Sheriff rebukes Kyle Rittenhouse’s ‘Stand Your Ground’ claims in DeFuniak Springs shooting
The Walton County Sheriff’s Office is pushing back hard after Kyle Rittenhouse claimed a DeFuniak Springs shooting was lawful self-defense. Sheriff Michael Adkinson says the victim was unarmed on his own property and calls the commentary “wildly irresponsible.”
Judge Denies Stand Your Ground Motion in Ledford Murder Case
A local man accused of murder won’t get his case tossed under Stand Your Ground—see why the judge says the evidence doesn’t add up.
Here’s What Happened At Dylan Deschaine’s Stand Your Ground Motion Hearing:
A rare courtroom move, shocking testimony, and a long-awaited decision—Dylan Deschaine took the stand in his own defense as the court examines whether his actions in the death of Mike Ledford qualify as self-defense.
