Terri Mashkow Obituary, Death News – A tragic incident in Indian River County has claimed the life of a longtime deputy and left several others injured, according to Vero Beach Mayor John Cotugno. Officials confirmed that Deputy Terri Mashkow, 47, who served her community for 25 years, passed away while responding to an eviction call at a residence in the Bermuda Club community. Authorities said the situation quickly escalated, leading to a shooting inside the home.
During a midday news conference, Sheriff Eric Flowers said another deputy, Tino Arizpe, sustained an injury to his shoulder, while a locksmith assisting at the scene was also seriously hurt. Both were taken to HCA Florida Lawnwood Hospital for medical care. A hospital spokesperson later said Deputy Arizpe was in stable condition, while both the locksmith and the individual identified as the shooting suspect, Michael Halberstam, remained in critical condition.
As the Indian River County Sheriff’s Office focuses its efforts on the unfolding investigation and provides support to those affected, nearby agencies have stepped in to help with routine calls. Brevard County Sheriff Wayne Ivey announced that his department sent deputies and supervisors to assist with community needs. In a public message, Ivey expressed deep sympathy, noting the risks law enforcement personnel face each day when serving the public.
Residents in the area described the day as emotional and unsettling. Many found themselves unable to return home for hours as authorities secured the neighborhood. Carol Robertson, a resident of Somerset Bay for five years, said she had been kept away from her home along with several family members since the morning. She said incidents like this are extremely rare in the area, and the event left her shaken.
Another resident, Kerry Adams, shared that she went to check on her parents who live within Bermuda Club after hearing about the situation. She stated that officers kept the public away from the residence where the incident occurred and advised residents to remain indoors. Adams described the community as peaceful and said she never imagined such an event happening in their quiet neighborhood.
Nearby resident Taylor Clark also expressed sadness and disbelief. She stopped her bicycle when she saw a large law enforcement presence near the entrance to the community. Clark said the situation made her reflect on personal and neighborhood safety, adding that it felt unusual and unexpected for the area.
Later in the day, community members and law enforcement personnel gathered along the Oslo Road overpass of Interstate 95 to honor Deputy Mashkow as a procession carried her to the medical examiner’s office. A small crowd stood quietly, paying their respects as Sheriff’s Office vehicles escorted her body. Among them was Sally Rogers, who, along with her husband, hung a large American flag over the highway in tribute. Rogers said she wanted to show support for law enforcement and acknowledged the challenges officers and their families face every day.
Officials said that Deputy Mashkow’s body would be transported with a full law enforcement escort, recognizing her long-standing service and sacrifice. The investigation into the events leading up to the incident is ongoing, with authorities carefully reviewing evidence and interviewing witnesses.
The community continues to extend condolences to the families and colleagues of those affected as they process the loss and offer support in the days ahead.
