The Indian River County Sheriff’s Office released an update on a suspect accused of killing a veteran Florida deputy, who has now been honored with a promotion in rank.
The sheriff’s office announced Saturday that Terri Sweeting-Mashkow has been posthumously promoted to the rank of Sergeant.
They also confirmed that the suspect, Michael Halberstam, passed away from his injuries on Saturday at 3:41 p.m.
Initial Coverage
As CrimeOnline previously reported, on Friday, three Indian River County Sheriff’s deputies attempted 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, Mashkow 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. Last reports show the locksmith in critical condition, with no updates at this time.
Check back for updates.
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[Feature Photo via Indian River County Sheriff’s Office]
