A second airman at F.E. Warren Air Force Base has been accused of involuntary manslaughter in connection with a fatal shooting in Cheyenne, Wyoming. This incident follows closely on the heels of a similar case last month, raising questions about firearms safety protocols at the base.
Airman First Class Jadan Orr, age 20, is currently in custody following an incident early Saturday morning. According to the Cheyenne Police Department, Orr was allegedly handling an AK-47 rifle in an apartment after a night of drinking with friends. The weapon discharged, sending a bullet through a wall and striking a 23-year-old man in the torso. The victim, whose identity has not yet been released by authorities, was pronounced dead at the scene.
This development follows earlier reports of another airman’s arrest on August 12th in connection with the July 20th shooting death of Airman Brayden Lovan. That case, which is still under investigation by the Air Force, led to the suspension of the Sig Sauer M18 handgun by the U.S. Air Force Global Strike Command.
The significance of these incidents should not be overlooked. They raise important questions about firearms training, safety measures, and disciplinary procedures within the Air Force. Both cases involve allegations of involuntary manslaughter, suggesting unintentional but potentially negligent actions.
The Sig Sauer M18 handgun, implicated in the earlier incident, has been the subject of lawsuits alleging it can fire without the trigger being pulled. However, other military branches continue to use the weapon.
As this situation unfolds, many will be looking to Air Force leadership for answers and assurances regarding the safety of personnel and the surrounding community. The evidence suggests that a thorough review of firearms policies and procedures may be necessary to prevent future tragedies.
