Phoenix airman killed during fatal shooting in Air Force base dormitory

PHOENIX — Air Force Airman First Class and Arizona native Natasha Aposhian died on Monday after being shot inside a military base dormitory.

The incident occurred around 4:30 a.m. inside a dormitory that hosts mainly single, enlisted airmen early in their military careers, Staff Sgt. Elijaih Tiggs told Stars and Stripes.

The investigation is currently ongoing and is “expected to continue for the coming weeks,” the base said in a press release.

Aposhian, 21, was assigned to Grand Forks Air Force Base in North Dakota in April as an aircraft parts store apprentice.

“We’re torn apart by the loss of our daughter to a senseless act of domestic violence,” Aposhian’s parents wrote in a statement.

“Natasha had recently joined the Air Force and was just starting to embark on a career serving her country. It’s a tragedy she won’t get to fulfill her hopes and dreams. We ask that you pray for her, our family and the countless victims of these crimes.”

Another airman was killed as a result of the incident.

Texas native Julian Torres, 20, was transported to a local hospital where he succumbed to his injuries shortly after arriving, according to the release.

After the incident, 21 airmen were moved out of the dormitory and the disaster mental health team was sent to provide support for anyone who may be affected.

“There will be a wide range of responses to an event like this,” Mental Health Flight commander Maj. Lateasa Reed-Jackson said in the release.

“This may trigger some other negative memories or be multiplied by other life stressors. Mental health is available for non-documented counseling and support for our Airmen in distress.”

No other information was made immediately available.

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