A tragic incident unfolded in south Florida as Charlotte County Cpl. Elio Diaz lost his life while on duty during a routine traffic stop on Sunday afternoon. The incident, which occurred at a Chevron gas station in Charlotte Harbor, left the community in mourning.
According to Sheriff Bill Prummell, Diaz was conducting a stop on a white pickup truck when the suspect, identified as 24-year-old Andrew Mostyn Jr., pulled out a rifle and fatally shot the deputy. Despite being rushed to a nearby hospital, Diaz succumbed to his injuries.
Following the shooting, Mostyn fled the scene, leading to a large-scale manhunt. He was eventually located at a Popeyes on King's Highway in Punta Gorda. When confronted by deputies, Mostyn attempted to reach for his rifle, resulting in a fatal shot being fired by law enforcement.
Sheriff Prummell expressed deep sorrow over the loss of Deputy Diaz, describing him as a dedicated officer, family man, and valued member of the community. State leaders, including Florida Attorney General Ashley Moody and Sen. Rick Scott, extended their condolences and prayers to the Charlotte County Sheriff's Office and Diaz's family.
Diaz had been a part of the Charlotte County Sheriff's Office since 2013 and was recognized as the department's law enforcement member of the first quarter in November 2023. His untimely death has left a profound impact on his colleagues, loved ones, and the entire community.
