Andrew Mostyn Jr., 24, has been identified as the person who fatally shot Sheriff’s Deputy Sgt. Elio Diaz during a routine traffic stop at a Chevron gas station on Tamiami Trail across from the Sunseeker resort around 3 pm on December 15.
According to Sheriff Bill Prummell, Sgt. Elio Diaz was conducting a routine traffic stop when he pulled over a white pickup truck. Andrew Mostyn, the driver of the truck, used a rifle to open fire, killing him at the scene.
A manhunt ensued, leading deputies to Mostyn’s pickup truck parked near a Popeyes restaurant on Kings Highway, close to I-75. As deputies closed in on Andrew Mostyn, he reportedly reached for another rifle inside his vehicle. In response, a deputy fired a fatal shot to Mostyn’s head.
Andrew Mostyn was airlifted to a hospital, where he succumbed to his injuries. At the scene of his confrontation with deputies, Mostyn had his dog with him. The animal is now in the care of a local animal shelter.
Sheriff Prummell described the incident as a tragic and senseless act of violence, emphasizing the ongoing investigation to determine what led Mostyn to commit the crime.
Remembering Sgt. Elio Diaz, who was shot by Andrew Mostyn Jr.
Sgt. Elio Diaz was a dedicated law enforcement officer who served the Charlotte County Sheriff’s Office for over 11 years. Starting his career in 2013, Diaz earned recognition for his exemplary service, including being named Law Enforcement Member of the Month in December 2015 and Member of the Quarter twice in 2023. His contributions and commitment to public safety earned him a promotion to Corporal in January 2020.
Following his tragic death in the line of duty during a traffic stop on Sunday, Sheriff Bill Prummell posthumously promoted Diaz to the rank of sergeant, honoring his legacy and dedication to the community.
While addressing the media, Sheriff Bill Prummell said:
"I want you guys to please keep Elio’s family in your thoughts and prayers, especially during this time of year. Elio was a friend and a good family man. He loved his children and he was a really great cop."
Florida's U.S. Senator Rick Scott took to his X to express his condolences and support following the tragic death of Sgt. Elio Diaz. He mentioned speaking with Sheriff Prummell to offer comfort and solidarity. Scott wrote:
"Devastated to hear of the passing of a Charlotte County deputy tonight. I spoke with @CCSOFLSheriff Prummell to let him know Ann and I are praying for his team and the deputy’s family tonight. Please keep them in your prayers."
Charlotte County Sheriff's Office also shared a post on their official Facebook handle along with a picture of Elio Diaz from a 'Shop With A Cop program—an event for which he eagerly signed up each year.' The post wrote:
"On behalf of Sheriff Prummell and the entire CCSO family, we thank you for the support you have shown as we all mourn our brother, Cpl. Elio Diaz. Please know that your messages, comments, and prayers are heard and appreciated by our members all throughout the agency."
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What drove Andrew Mostyn to open fire at Elio Diaz for stopping him for a routine check is still being investigated.
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