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Indian River County Honors Slain Locksmith David Long With Posthumous Deputy Title at Funeral

The tribute recognized a civilian killed during an eviction operation in Vero Beach.

Overview

  • Deputies escorted Long’s remains in a procession that paused at Benson’s Lock Service before a packed service at Calvary Chapel.
  • Sheriff Eric Flowers presented an honorary deputy badge, effective Nov. 21, 2025, to commemorate Long’s service to the community.
  • Long, 76, was shot on Nov. 21 while assisting deputies serving an eviction and died from his injuries on Nov. 23.
  • The same shooting also killed Sgt. Terri Sweeting‑Mashkow and injured Deputy Tony Arizpe, who joined mourners to pay respects.
  • WPTV reported that the shooter’s mother, who sought the eviction, had hired Long to change the locks to allow deputies into the home.