Routine Eviction Turns Deadly in Florida: Remembering Deputy Terri Mashkow
At first, it appeared to be a standard call — one of countless eviction requests officers handle without incident. But on November 21, in Indian River County, Florida, what should have been routine quickly escalated into a tragic confrontation, leaving a deputy dead and others injured.
A Deputy Fatally Shot in the Line of Duty
Deputy Terri Mashkow, 47, was killed while assisting in the removal of Michael Halberstam, the adult son of a local resident, in Vero Beach. Another deputy was injured in the shoulder, and a locksmith on site also sustained injuries during the encounter.
Sheriff Eric Flowers called it “an awful day,” noting that the incident occurred just days before Thanksgiving. He described Mashkow’s work as part of the everyday duties deputies carry out courageously to serve their communities.
How the Confrontation Unfolded
Authorities say Mashkow, a fellow deputy, and a locksmith arrived at Halberstam’s home to serve an eviction notice at the request of his mother. Halberstam unexpectedly retrieved a firearm and opened fire on the group. Deputies returned fire, striking him multiple times.
Mashkow died in the line of duty, while the injured deputy is expected to make a full recovery. Halberstam survived the initial exchange but succumbed to his injuries on November 23.
Suspect Background and Investigation
Officials noted that Halberstam had a prior criminal record, including narcotics offenses and a misdemeanor assault charge. Investigators are examining the circumstances that led his mother to request the eviction and are reviewing online posts he had made, some critical of law enforcement, for potential connections to the incident.
A multi-agency investigation remains underway as authorities reconstruct the events leading up to the deadly shooting.
State Leaders Respond
Governor Ron DeSantis expressed condolences and confirmed the Florida Department of Law Enforcement’s assistance in the investigation, while Attorney General James Uthmeier offered prayers for officers serving communities across the state.
Honoring Deputy Mashkow
In recognition of her service, Mashkow was posthumously promoted to sergeant and will now be remembered as Sergeant Sweeting-Mashkow. Funeral arrangements are forthcoming.
Family members shared heartfelt tributes. Her cousin Joan Bennett described Mashkow as “warm, driven, and deeply compassionate,” highlighting her love for animals and dedication to helping others. Mashkow was also a devoted mother to a teenage daughter and stepson. Her husband remembered her simply as “an amazing woman with a heart of gold.”
Conclusion
Deputy Terri Mashkow’s death is a sobering reminder of the dangers law enforcement officers face daily. Her courage, dedication, and compassion leave a lasting legacy — not only within the sheriff’s office but throughout the family and community she devoted her life to protecting.