Fatal Shooting Incident at F.E. Warren Air Force Base Raises Concerns
A tragic incident involving a firearm at F.E. Warren Air Force Base has resulted in the death of a man and the arrest of an airman. This marks the second gun-related death associated with the Wyoming base within a short timeframe, intensifying scrutiny over firearm safety among military personnel.
Airman Jadan Orr, aged 20, has been charged with involuntary manslaughter following the fatal shooting. The Cheyenne Police Department initially described the charge as voluntary manslaughter but later corrected it at the Air Force’s request. Orr, a member of the 90th Missile Wing, allegedly handled an AK-47 while under the influence of alcohol, leading to the accidental firing of the weapon through a wall, which struck and killed a 23-year-old male.
According to a statement from the Cheyenne Police Department, Orr was manipulating the firearm when it discharged, hitting the victim in the torso in an adjacent room. Despite efforts from individuals at the scene to provide medical assistance, the victim succumbed to his injuries. His identity has not yet been disclosed by police or Air Force officials.
This incident follows another firearm-related death on the base, where Airman Brayden Lovan, 21, was killed by an M18 handgun. This earlier event prompted a comprehensive review of Sig Sauer’s M18 pistols used by the Air Force, amid safety concerns and reports that the guns could discharge without the trigger being pulled.
In response to these incidents, Col. Terry Holmes, commander of the 90th Missile Wing, expressed condolences and pledged full cooperation with the ongoing investigations. “Our thoughts are with the family, friends and teammates affected by this tragic loss,” he stated.
Following Lovan’s death, the Air Force Global Strike Command temporarily halted the use of the M18 handgun as part of a broader inspection initiative. This pause remains in effect while the investigation continues, although updates on the probe’s progress have not been forthcoming from Air Force officials.
The recent events underscore the urgent need for stringent firearm safety protocols within military settings to prevent further tragedies. Meanwhile, Sig Sauer has defended the safety record of its P320 model, including the M17 and M18 variants, stating it meets all industry standards.
Editor’s note: This story was updated with information on Orr’s charges provided by the Air Force after publication.
