VERO BEACH, Fla. - A tragic gunfire exchange occurred in Vero Beach last week resulting in the death of Deputy Terri Sweeting-Mashkow and the alleged shooter, Michael Halberstam. Halberstam, 37, was shot by law enforcement officers after he opened fire while they were serving an eviction notice at his mother's home.
On Friday, Halberstam shot two deputies and a locksmith, leading to a chaotic scene as officers responded. Deputy Sweeting-Mashkow lost her life, while another deputy sustained injuries and the locksmith remained in critical condition following surgery.
The sheriff's department reported that the agency had previously received multiple calls from the residence, prompting Deputy Sweeting-Mashkow and her team to respond to what was deemed a standard eviction notice. Sheriff Eric Flowers emphasized that there was no indication of trouble expected, likening it to a standard police call.
Flowers expressed his condolences and recounted the impact of Sweeting-Mashkow's loss. She was recognized for her 25 years of service and was posthumously promoted to sergeant, highlighting her significant contributions to the sheriff's office.
The unfortunate location of the shooting, marked by previous complaints regarding Halberstam's behavior, raises questions about the triggers leading to this tragic outcome.
