A routine eviction call in Indian River County, Florida, turned deadly when Deputy Terri Mashkow, 47, was shot and killed while attempting to remove a woman’s son, Michael Halberstam, from his mother’s home. Another deputy and a locksmith were also wounded when Halberstam opened fire without warning, prompting deputies to return fire. Mashkow tragically died from her injuries, leaving the sheriff’s office and community devastated.
Halberstam, who had a history of narcotics offenses and misdemeanor assault, was hospitalized in critical condition before dying two days later. Investigators soon uncovered concerning online posts he had made criticizing law enforcement, though the motive behind the shooting and the reason his mother initiated the eviction remain unclear.
Top Florida officials, including Governor Ron DeSantis and Attorney General James Uthmeier, publicly acknowledged the tragedy and assured the community that state agencies were actively involved in the investigation. Meanwhile, the sheriff’s office honored Mashkow by promoting her posthumously to sergeant in recognition of her service and sacrifice.
Mashkow’s family shared heartfelt tributes, remembering her as a devoted mother, a dedicated deputy, and a woman with an enormous heart. Her cousin described her as tough yet loving, someone who cared deeply for her family and community. Her sudden loss has left loved ones grieving, but her legacy lives on through the impact she made both on duty and at home.
