Vero Beach, Florida — A deputy with the Indian River County Sheriff’s Office was fatally shot Friday while serving an eviction notice at a residence along Florida’s Atlantic coast, according to local law enforcement officials.
Terri Mashkow, the 47-year-old deputy who lost her life, had dedicated 25 years to the sheriff’s office. Sheriff Eric Flowers expressed deep sorrow during a news conference, reflecting on their long-standing professional relationship and describing Mashkow as an “amazing deputy.” He emphasized the profound impact of her loss on the department.
In addition to Mashkow, two others were injured in the incident: another deputy and a locksmith who was assisting law enforcement. The locksmith remains in critical condition following surgery, while the other deputy, who sustained a shoulder injury, is expected to recover. Sheriff Flowers confirmed that the suspect, also a deputy, was in serious condition with multiple gunshot wounds.
The situation unfolded in the Bermuda Club neighborhood, where deputies had responded to an eviction request concerning the suspect’s mother. As officers entered the home, the son reportedly opened fire with a firearm, striking the deputies and the locksmith. Sheriff Flowers described the gunfire as “indiscriminate.”
Authorities identified the shooter as Michael Halberstam, who had previously lost his job at UPS and had faced legal issues, including narcotics and assault charges. Sheriff Flowers noted that the suspect had been vocal about his grievances against the sheriff’s office on social media.
In the weeks leading up to the incident, the department had received several calls from the residence, primarily from the mother regarding her son. However, deputies did not anticipate the escalation of violence during the routine eviction. “This was a standard call for service,” Flowers said.
The investigation remains ongoing, and law enforcement officials are seeking more information about Halberstam. Flowers mentioned that, at this time, there was nothing in the suspect’s background that would have prohibited him from legally owning a firearm. He added that it was unclear if Mashkow had returned fire during the confrontation.
Florida Attorney General James Uthmeier addressed the tragedy, calling for a moment of silence in honor of the officers involved. The community, still in shock, mourns the loss of a dedicated public servant and reflects on the dangers faced by law enforcement officers daily.
As investigations continue, the Indian River County Sheriff’s Office grieves, united in their shared loss while trying to ensure the safety of their community. Vero Beach is located over 80 miles north of West Palm Beach, making this incident particularly significant for the region.