Raymond Benedetti Obituary, Death – The Indian River County Sheriff’s Office (IRCSO) has publicly identified the man fatally shot during a deputy-involved incident on Wednesday night as 48-year-old Raymond Benedetti. Authorities revealed that Benedetti had a lengthy history of mental health challenges and substance abuse.
Sheriff Eric Flowers issued a statement following the shooting, calling the situation tragic while emphasizing that deputies were forced to make a fast and difficult decision in response to an immediate threat. “Our deputies had to make a split-second decision when confronted with a threat. Our whole team performed admirably, and I am proud of the work they do to keep our community safe every day,” he said.
The IRCSO announced that its forensic unit is currently reviewing footage from both body-worn and dashboard cameras. The agency plans to release the videos to the public once processing is complete.
The events leading up to the shooting began earlier that evening when Benedetti’s mother contacted law enforcement to report that her vehicle had been taken without permission. She informed deputies that Benedetti used the vehicle to obtain an illegal narcotic frequently used to treat individuals experiencing drug withdrawal symptoms.
Deputies were able to locate the vehicle shortly afterward and conducted a traffic stop. Benedetti was found inside, along with a passenger. According to IRCSO, Benedetti initially complied with officers’ commands but soon began making suspicious movements—reaching into his pockets and waistband as though searching for a weapon.
Despite multiple verbal commands from deputies instructing him to show his hands, Benedetti continued to disobey. The situation escalated further when he allegedly attempted to charge at one of the deputies, prompting the use of deadly force.
The passenger who was with Benedetti did not engage in any violence and has been fully cooperative with law enforcement officials throughout the investigation.
Following the shooting, Benedetti was transported to a hospital where he was later pronounced dead. Investigators subsequently confirmed that Benedetti had an extensive criminal background, including 23 felony arrests.
Both deputies involved in the shooting have been placed on paid administrative leave as is standard protocol during such investigations. IRCSO noted that one of the deputies joined the sheriff’s office in December 2024 but had previously served for six years with another law enforcement agency. The second deputy has been employed with IRCSO since November 2021.
The investigation into the shooting remains ongoing, with authorities continuing to gather evidence and interview witnesses. The sheriff’s office is expected to release further updates, including footage and official findings, as the inquiry progresses.
In the meantime, officials are urging the public to allow the investigation to proceed thoroughly and without speculation, stressing their commitment to transparency and accountability in officer-involved incidents.