Locksmith David Long Dies After Vero Beach Eviction Shooting

INDIAN RIVER COUNTY, Fla. — David Long, a 76-year-old locksmith, succumbed to injuries sustained during a shooting in Vero Beach as he assisted law enforcement with an eviction. His family confirmed he passed away Sunday around 2:41 p.m. after being on life support due to complications from his injuries.

The incident occurred Friday at the 1100 block of Governor’s Way in the Bermuda Club/Somerset Bay community while deputies from the Indian River County Sheriff’s Office attempted to evict Michael Halberstam. Alongside Long, Sergeant Terri Sweeting-Mashkow was killed, and Deputy Florentino Arizpe was shot in the shoulder but has since been released from HCA Lawnwood Hospital.

Sweeting-Mashkow, a 25-year veteran of the force, was posthumously promoted to sergeant after the tragic event. Sheriff Eric Flowers expressed his heartbreak following the incident, stating, “David Long was a dedicated professional who was simply doing his job when he was caught in an unthinkable act of violence.”

The sheriff’s office received multiple calls regarding Halberstam prior to the shooting, primarily from his mother, who was seeking assistance to evict him. Sheriff Flowers noted that there was nothing in Halberstam’s record that indicated he would wield a weapon during the eviction.

Following the shooting, Long and Arizpe were rushed to the hospital, where Long fought for his life until his passing on Sunday. Arizpe is now recovering at home. Halberstam, who was also shot during the confrontation, died from his injuries Saturday.

A memorial vigil for Sweeting-Mashkow is planned, and community members continue to pay their respects at the site of the incident. Sheriff Flowers emphasized the sacrifices made by both sworn deputies and civilians like Long, who assist during such calls. “His loss is a reminder of the sacrifices made,” he added.