Terri Mashkow Spent 25 Years with the Indian River County Sheriff’s Office.
A Florida deputy has passed away, following a shooting while serving an eviction notice in Indian River County.
On Friday, three Indian River County Sheriff’s deputies arrived at a residence in the 1100 block of Governor’s Way to serve an eviction notice to Michael Halberstam, with the help of a locksmith, according to Indian River County Sheriff Eric Flowers.
The eviction request came from Halberstam’s mother for her home in Vero Beach.
Once the two deputies and the locksmith gained entry, Halberstam reportedly grabbed a weapon and started “indiscriminately firing.” Deputies returned fire, striking Halberstam several times, ABC News reported.
“This was a standard call for service. This is the everyday call, the eviction. Regular duties that our deputies bravely do,” Flowers said.
WPBF reported that during the shootout, Deputy Sheriff Terri Mashkow, 47, was fatally shot and died at the scene. Mashkow had over 25 years of service.
Deputy Florention Arizpe, who sustained a shoulder wound, also has 25 years of service. Arizpe was treated at HCA Florida Lawnwood Hospital and is in recovery.
The deputies’ sergeant was the third deputy on the scene and was not injured.
The locksmith and the suspect are both in critical condition.
It remains unclear why Halberstam’s mother wanted him evicted. However, Halberstam reportedly has previous narcotics and misdemeanor assault charges.
Officials stated they found several “strange posts” and “negative items” about the sheriff’s office on his social media, according to ABC News.
This tragedy has struck many and is diligently being investigated.
Florida Attorney General James Uthmeier said during a news conference, “Just wanted to take a couple moments of silence for the officers that were in the line of duty.”
Florida Gov. DeSantis also confirmed on Friday, “There is a lot going on. Just know Florida Department of Law Enforcement is engaged, working with the sheriff and the local community. We will hope for the best results of that.”
Like many residents in Florida, Stacy Desopo posted, “Please pray for our community.” This sentiment can be witnessed throughout the Florida area online.
This is an ongoing investigation. Check back for updates.
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[Feature Photo via Indian River County Sheriff’s Office]
