A locksmith assisting deputies with an eviction in Vero Beach, Florida, has died from injuries sustained in a shooting that also claimed the life of a sheriff’s deputy. The incident occurred when the suspect allegedly opened fire indiscriminately as law enforcement and the locksmith entered the residence.
Key Takeaways
- A locksmith, David Long, died from his injuries following a shooting during an eviction.
- Sergeant Terri Sweeting-Mashkow was killed in the line of duty during the same incident.
- Another deputy, Tino Arizpe, was injured but has since been released from the hospital.
- The suspect, Michael Halberstam, also died from his injuries.
- Florida law requires a landlord’s representative, often a locksmith, to be present during evictions.
A Tragic Turn of Events
David Long, 76, succumbed to his wounds on Sunday, November 23, 2025, days after the violent encounter. He had been critically injured while performing his duties alongside Indian River County Sheriff’s Office deputies. The shooting took place on Friday, November 21, 2025, as deputies attempted to serve an eviction notice at a home in the Bermuda Club neighborhood.
The Ambush
According to Sheriff Eric Flowers, the suspect, Michael Halberstam, began firing indiscriminately as deputies and Long entered the residence. Sergeant Terri Sweeting-Mashkow, a 25-year veteran of the sheriff’s office, was killed at the scene. Deputy Tino Arizpe sustained a gunshot wound to the shoulder but was later released from the hospital. Halberstam himself died on Saturday from injuries sustained when deputies returned fire.
The Role of the Locksmith
Former Palm Beach County State Attorney Dave Aronberg explained that Florida law mandates the presence of a landlord’s representative, such as a locksmith, during the execution of a writ of possession. This is because deputies can remove occupants but cannot change locks or damage property themselves. The locksmith’s role is to secure the property after the eviction is complete. In this instance, Long was positioned near the entryway when the shooting began, making him a victim of the unexpected ambush.
Community Mourning and Recognition
Sheriff Flowers expressed profound sorrow over the loss of both Sergeant Sweeting-Mashkow and David Long, emphasizing that Long was a dedicated professional caught in a tragic act of violence while simply doing his job. Long, a U.S. Army veteran and respected local business owner, was posthumously recognized as an honorary deputy by the Indian River County Sheriff’s Office during his funeral service with military honors. The community has rallied to remember Long for his service, kindness, and dedication.
Sources
- Locksmith injured in shooting that claimed life of Florida deputy dies; 2nd deputy released from hospital, WKMG.
- Deputy released from hospital, locksmith dies in hospital after deadly eviction shooting, WPEC.
- Deputy veteran killed, second deputy, locksmith and suspect wounded in Friday shooting, Vero News.
- Why a locksmith was at the door when a Vero Beach eviction turned deadly, WPEC.
- Locksmith David Long, killed in shooting, becomes honorary deputy, Vero News.
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