Sergeant Elio Díaz, a Cuban-origin police officer from Charlotte County, was shot and killed during a traffic stop last Sunday, an incident that has left the community and the police force he served for over a decade in shock.
Elio Díaz was born in Cuba and emigrated to the United States at the age of nine, settling with his family in the Miami area.
He attended Southwest Miami Senior High School in the Westchester neighborhood, where he began to forge his character and dedication to community service.
At the age of 30, in 2013, he joined the Charlotte County Sheriff's Office, where he built an exemplary career that earned him numerous accolades.
In January 2020, he was promoted to corporal, and following his tragic death, Sheriff Bill Prummell announced his posthumous promotion to the rank of sergeant.
During his more than 11 years in the Sheriff's Department, Díaz worked in various areas, including Highway Patrol, STAR Investigations (Strategic Target Area Response), and the Crisis Negotiation Team
Elio Díaz also received several awards, notably being recognized as Member of the Public Order Forces of the Month in December 2015 and Member of the Quarter on two occasions in 2023.
He was known for his ability to connect with the community and his dedication to programs like "Shop With A Cop," in which he actively participated every year.
Affable character and passion for Cuban coffee
Elio Díaz was known for his friendly and genuine nature, as well as his passion for Cuban coffee.
"He was famous in the agency for his homemade Cuban coffee. When he brought some to the office, the staff would line up to get a cup," shared a spokesperson from the Sheriff's Department.
His dedication to his career was only surpassed by his love for his family.
He is survived by his wife and four children, who now face the loss of a devoted husband and father.
"He had a personality that transcended any situation. Díaz loved to laugh and make others laugh," recalled Sheriff Prummell.
The fatal incident
On the afternoon of Sunday, December 15th, Elio Díaz stopped a vehicle at a Chevron gas station located on Tamiami Trail, near Charlotte Harbor.
During the traffic stop, the driver, Andrew Mostyn Jr., opened fire on the officer with a rifle, fatally injuring him.
A young woman who witnessed the murder and attempted to assist the injured officer has made harrowing statements to the local press, specifying that she did everything she could to save him, but it was not enough.
Mostyn fled the scene but was later located by the agents. As he attempted to resist and draw his weapon again, he was shot at the scene.
Joy Pyle Dameron, the murderer’s mother, stated that her son had "severe mental illness."
Although Officer Elio Díaz was urgently transported to a hospital on Sunday afternoon, he unfortunately passed away.
Sheriff Bill Prummell confirmed the details of the tragic incident and asked the community to keep Díaz's family in their thoughts and prayers.
Reactions from the community and the authorities
The tragic murder of Elio Díaz has sparked a wave of reactions among community members, as well as local and state authorities
Charlotte County Commissioner Bill Truex expressed his dismay: “The time will come for all of us to come together in any way possible to help the family and heal the community. People do not forget these things.”
"Devastated to hear about the death of a Charlotte County officer tonight. I spoke with @CCSOFLSheriff Prummell to let him know that Ann and I are praying for his team and the officer's family tonight. Please keep them in your prayers," wrote Senator Rick Scott on social media.
Jimmy Petronis, the state's Chief Financial Officer, wrote: "Tragic reports from Charlotte County tonight of a shooting involving an officer. God bless these heroes."
Yvette Benarroch, representative of District 81 in Florida, also expressed her sorrow over the loss: “With a heavy heart for the loss of Cpl. Elio Díaz. His sacrifice will never be forgotten.”
Police organizations and departments throughout the region have also joined in mourning, highlighting Elio Díaz's valor and commitment to the community.
The death of Sergeant Elio Díaz not only leaves a void in his family and colleagues but also in the community to which he dedicated his life.
His colleagues and superiors are working on ways to honor his memory, ensuring that his sacrifice and contributions are not forgotten.
Frequently Asked Questions about the Murder of Cuban Policeman Elio Díaz in Florida
How did the murder of Elio Díaz occur?
Elio Díaz, a sergeant of Cuban origin, was murdered during a traffic stop in Charlotte County, Florida. The incident occurred when he stopped a vehicle at a gas station, and the driver, Andrew Mostyn Jr., opened fire with a rifle, fatally wounding him. Díaz was transported to a hospital, but unfortunately, he passed away.
Who was responsible for the murder of Elio Díaz?
The individual responsible for the murder was identified as Andrew Mostyn Jr. After the shooting, he fled the scene but was later located by officers. Mostyn was shot at the scene as he attempted to resist and wield his weapon again.
What was the reaction of the community and the authorities to the death of Elio Díaz?
The community and authorities expressed their shock at the tragic event. Sheriff Bill Prummell urged everyone to keep Díaz's family in their thoughts and prayers. Senator Rick Scott, among others, also conveyed his condolences and support. The murder has sparked a wave of solidarity and mourning within the community.
What is known about Elio Díaz's life and career?
Elio Díaz was born in Cuba and emigrated to the United States at the age of nine. He joined the Charlotte County Sheriff's Office in 2013 and had a distinguished career with numerous accolades. He was known for his dedication to the community and his friendly character. He is survived by his wife and four children.
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