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Deputy Killed During Florida Eviction; Suspect Dies After Vero Beach Shootout

Authorities now confirm the gunman died from his injuries, prompting a state-led review of the shooting.

Overview

  • Deputy Terri Sweeting-Mashkow, 47, a 25-year veteran of the Indian River County Sheriff’s Office, was fatally shot while deputies served an eviction at the Bermuda Club in Vero Beach.
  • The suspect, identified as 37-year-old Michael Halberstam, opened fire as deputies entered the home and was shot by officers; he died Saturday afternoon, according to the sheriff’s office.
  • Deputy Florentino “Tino” Arispe was shot in the shoulder and is recovering, and a locksmith who accompanied deputies was critically wounded and underwent surgery.
  • Investigators are examining which officers fired their weapons and are reviewing Halberstam’s background, including prior charges in Virginia, recent calls to the residence, and social-media posts flagged by the sheriff’s office.
  • Mashkow was posthumously promoted to sergeant, and officials noted hers is only the second line-of-duty death in the agency’s 100-year history, with funeral details to be announced.