A Charlotte County deputy was tragically killed Sunday afternoon during a routine traffic stop in Charlotte Harbor. Deputy Sergeant Elio Diaz, a respected member of the Charlotte County Sheriff’s Office, was shot and killed while conducting the stop on Tamiami Trail. The incident unfolded around 3:00 p.m. at the Chevron gas station located at 4968 Tamiami Trail, across from the Sunseeker Resort.
Diaz had pulled over a white pickup truck, driven by 24-year-old Andrew Mostyn Jr., when, without warning, Mostyn allegedly pulled out a rifle and shot Diaz. Despite efforts to save him, Sergeant Diaz was rushed to the hospital where he later succumbed to his injuries, leaving behind his family, friends, and the entire Charlotte County community in mourning.
“Sergeant Diaz was not only a dedicated law enforcement officer but also a wonderful family man and a friend to many,” said Charlotte County Sheriff Bill Prummell in a statement. “He loved his children, and he was truly a great cop who made a difference in the lives of those he served. This is a tremendous loss for all of us.”
A massive manhunt for Mostyn quickly ensued, leading deputies to a Popeyes restaurant on Kings Highway near I-75. When law enforcement officers approached Mostyn’s vehicle, he allegedly reached for a rifle, prompting a deputy to open fire. Mostyn was struck and later flown to the hospital, where he too died from his injuries.
The law enforcement community has rallied in support of the Diaz family, with numerous tributes pouring in. On Monday, Sergeant Diaz was posthumously promoted to the rank of sergeant in honor of his service and sacrifice.
As investigators continue to piece together the events leading to the shooting, authorities are working to understand why Mostyn pulled the trigger on such a senseless act of violence. A significant law enforcement presence remained at both the Chevron gas station and Popeyes restaurant well into the evening as detectives collected evidence.
This tragic event has left the community shaken, but Sheriff Prummell vowed that Sergeant Diaz’s legacy would never be forgotten. “We will continue to honor him, his service, and his sacrifice. He will always be a part of this family,” Prummell said.
