Authorities in Florida say the man accused of fatally shooting Deputy Terri Sweeting-Mashkow during an eviction operation has died, bringing a tragic case to a close only days after the deadly confrontation.
The shooting occurred Friday in the upscale Bermuda Club community of Vero Beach, where three Indian River County Sheriff’s Office deputies were serving an eviction notice. According to investigators, Michael Halberstam, 37, allegedly grabbed a firearm and opened fire, killing the 45-year-old deputy.
Sweeting-Mashkow, a 25-year veteran, was only the second deputy in the agency’s century-long history to be killed in the line of duty.
Suspect Succumbs to Injuries Following Deputy Gunfire
Authorities confirmed that Halberstam, who was struck by return fire from the other two deputies on scene, died Saturday at 3:41 p.m. EST.
The agency released the update in an official statement posted on its social media page and later through the Indian River County Sheriff’s Office (hyperlink to official website: Indian River County Sheriff’s Office).
Deputy Sweeting-Mashkow was posthumously promoted to sergeant, a decision Sheriff Eric Flowers said reflects her long-standing dedication and service.
“She will be addressed as Sergeant Sweeting-Mashkow henceforth,” the department said, adding gratitude to the community for its support during what it described as an extremely difficult time.
A Veteran Deputy Remembered
Sweeting-Mashkow had spent 25 years serving Indian River County and was known for her commitment to public safety, according to statements from the department and local officials. Authorities emphasized that her loss marks a deeply painful moment for the entire agency.
The U.S. Department of Justice (hyperlink: Department of Justice) reported that line-of-duty deaths involving eviction-related encounters remain a rare but challenging risk for officers nationwide.
As the investigation continues, the community is preparing for formal honors to remember the fallen deputy and her decades of service.
