by Vero Beach, FL — A routine civil process call turned deadly Friday morning when an eviction service escalated into gunfire, leaving one Indian River County deputy dead, another wounded, and two additional people hospitalized. Authorities say the tragedy unfolded inside a residence along Governor’s Way in the Bermuda Club community, approximately 140 miles north of Miami.
According to the Indian River County Sheriff’s Office, deputies arrived at the home to serve a court-ordered eviction requested by the suspect’s mother. What began as a standard enforcement action quickly turned into one of the county’s most devastating days in decades.
Deputies Ambushed Inside the Entryway
Sheriff Eric Flowers confirmed that Deputy Terri Sweeting-Mashkow, 47, a 25-year veteran, was shot and killed moments after entering the residence.
Flowers said deputies had just stepped into the entryway when 37-year-old Michael Halberstam retrieved a gun and opened fire without warning.
“While they were in the entryway… Halberstam retrieved a weapon and began indiscriminately firing at our deputies,” — Sheriff Eric Flowers
A locksmith assisting with the eviction and Halberstam were also struck in the exchange of gunfire. Both remain in critical condition.
A Second Deputy Injured While Retreating to Safety
Deputy Florentino “Tino” Arizpe, a 25-year member of the department, suffered a gunshot wound to the shoulder. Flowers said Arizpe managed to retreat into the garage and is now recovering.
“Deputy Arizpe is recovering but hurt,” — Sheriff Flowers
A sergeant on scene and Arizpe returned fire. Investigators have not yet confirmed whether Sweeting-Mashkow discharged her weapon.
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Suspect Had Prior Criminal History and Troubling Online Posts
Sheriff Flowers reported that Halberstam, the shooter, had a history of legal issues including a 2006 narcotics charge and a 2015 misdemeanor assault in Virginia. Investigators are also reviewing social media posts referencing his former employer UPS and negative comments directed at law enforcement.
Officials emphasized that deputies had no indication they would face violence when arriving for what is considered a routine but often emotionally charged eviction process.
Fallen Deputy Honored in Emotional Procession
Following the shooting, Deputy Sweeting-Mashkow was transported to the medical examiner’s office in a solemn procession attended by dozens of deputies, officers, and first responders from across the region.
The Indian River County Sheriff’s Office released a tribute describing her as:
“A dedicated public servant, a trusted partner, and a caring friend… Her sacrifice will forever be remembered.”
She leaves behind her husband, mother, and extended law enforcement family. Sweeting-Mashkow is only the second deputy in the agency’s 100-year history to be killed in the line of duty.
Community Response and Ongoing Investigation
In the hours following the shooting, WPBF and other local outlets reported a significant law enforcement presence across the county — including armored vehicles and unmarked units racing to secure the scene.
The Florida Department of Law Enforcement is now leading the investigation, which is standard protocol for shootings involving deputies.
Sheriff Flowers said notifying Sweeting-Mashkow’s family was “the worst part” of his job.
“Having to call her mom today and having to call her husband is absolutely the worst part of being a law enforcement leader.”
Recent Tragedies Highlight Risks of Routine Calls
Friday’s shooting is the second deadly attack on a South Florida deputy in less than two weeks, coming shortly after the Nov. 7 killing of Miami-Dade Deputy Devin Jaramillo.
Law enforcement officials say even routine calls like evictions or welfare checks can become dangerous with little warning.
As the county mourns, community leaders and residents are preparing memorial events to honor Deputy Sweeting-Mashkow’s life and service.
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