Judge says case against former deputy charged in senior airman’s death will move forward

FORT WALTON BEACH, Fla. (WALA) - A judge is refusing to delay the case against former Okaloosa County Sheriff’s deputy Eddie Duran, who was back in court Tuesday morning.

Duran is charged with killing Senior Airman Roger Fortson inside Fortson’s apartment in May 2024.

Last month, Judge William Stone denied Duran immunity after a three-day hearing. Duran’s defense attorneys have since appealed the ruling and asked to postpone the trial until the appeal is decided.

Judge Stone denied that request, saying the trial needs to stay on schedule. He said he can adjust if the District Court of Appeal requires it.

Fortson’s mother, Meka Fortson, said she is glad the case is still moving forward but is worried about what the appeal could mean.

“I’m not going to lie and say I’m not. I am. We have been wronged in so many ways and have been told that we have to accept it. So that’s what makes me scared. I don’t know if everybody’s going to be like Judge Stone and say no wrong is wrong, right is right,” Fortson said.

Jury selection is set to begin Monday.