David Long Obituary, Death Cause – Indian River County officials have confirmed that a second person has passed away following a difficult and emotional incident that unfolded during an eviction in a gated community near Vero Beach. The event, which occurred several days earlier, involved a shooting that tragically claimed the life of a longtime sheriff’s deputy and has now resulted in the loss of a well-known local locksmith.
In a statement released Sunday, the Indian River County Sheriff’s Office shared the news that 76-year-old David Long did not survive the serious injuries he sustained on November 21. The agency expressed deep sorrow, noting that Long was widely respected in the community for his professionalism and friendly nature.
Authorities say the incident began on Friday, when deputies went to carry out a lawful eviction at a home in the Bermuda Club neighborhood. Sheriff Eric Flowers explained that three deputies and Long, who was assisting in his professional capacity, were in the entryway of the residence when the situation took a sudden and tragic turn.
According to Sheriff Flowers, the individual being evicted—identified as 37-year-old Michael Halberstam—unexpectedly fired at the group. Deputy Terri Sweeting-Mashkow, age 47, was fatally wounded. She had served with the Indian River County Sheriff’s Office for 25 years and was known for her dedication and steady leadership.
Long was also struck and taken to the hospital, where he underwent emergency surgery. Officials initially reported that he remained in critical condition, but his injuries proved too severe.
A second deputy, Florentino “Tino” Arizpe, was also wounded in the shoulder. He was treated and released from the hospital on Sunday. Another sergeant who was at the scene was not physically harmed.
In its statement, the sheriff’s office described Long as a devoted professional who worked closely with law enforcement over the years. They emphasized that he was fulfilling his job responsibilities when he was unexpectedly caught in the violence. Friends, colleagues, and community members remembered him as someone who was always willing to help others and approach his work with kindness.
Sheriff Flowers said deputies returned fire during the incident. Halberstam was injured and transported for medical care but later passed away on Saturday. Authorities noted that in the weeks leading up to the event, they had been called to Halberstam’s residence multiple times, mostly at the request of his mother. Flowers added that Halberstam had recently lost his job and had posted critical comments about the sheriff’s office on social media. Despite those posts, Flowers said Halberstam was not considered an active threat prior to the incident.
Flowers described the situation as one that began like many routine calls deputies handle daily. He emphasized that evictions and similar service calls are part of regular law enforcement duties, and deputies approach them with professionalism and care.
The sheriff’s office has appointed Jennifer Gelesky to coordinate the support being offered to the families affected by the tragedy. This includes both the relatives of Deputy Sweeting-Mashkow and the loved ones of David Long, as well as assistance for the surviving deputies.
In a heartfelt message, Sheriff Flowers said the community is once again grieving deeply. He highlighted Long’s role as a local professional who was simply doing his job when the situation unfolded. Flowers called Long’s passing, following the loss of Deputy Sweeting-Mashkow, a reminder of the risks faced not only by law enforcement officers but also by the community members who work alongside them. He extended the department’s condolences to all families affected and asked the community to keep them in their thoughts during an incredibly challenging time.
