Sailor fatally shot at naval air station last week from Colorado

U.S. Navy Fleet Forces Command said in a press release that Seaman Robert Colton Wright of Colorado crashed through a station gate Friday night and went to his squadron's hangar. A short time later, base security received a distress call from a Petty Officer on watch inside Hangar 111, home of VFA-81, who reported an individual was yelling and causing damage in squadron hallways.  When security arrived, Wright refused to show his hands and made aggressive moves toward the officers. One of the officers fired a single shot, striking Wright.

 

A Navy biography says Wright, who enlisted in 2016, worked as an information systems technician for Strike Fighter Squadron 81.

 

Randy Wright, an uncle, told The Associated Press in a Facebook message that the family has no comment and is waiting for the investigation to conclude.

 

Wright's father, Randy Wright, posted the following to his Facebook page:

 

"As I lay here trying to understand the bigger reason why God test us, he has brought a Angel home to watch over all of us. This I know and someday will understand what God's purpose for it is. I love you son."

 

The 22-year-old was from Littleton and worked as a volunteer firefighter with Franktown before enlisting in the Navy.  Upon learning of his passing, Franktown Fire posted a statement to its Facebook page:

 

"It is with a heavy heart that Franktown Fire has learned about the matters concerning Colton Wright. During Colton's time serving as a volunteer firefighter with Franktown, he was both a valued and well-respected member of our organization.  We know the Navy will do their due diligence in investigating the incident.  Our focus now is to honor Colton's family's request for privacy and to support family, friends and community during this difficult time."