Corporal Elio Diaz Obituary, Death – Charlotte County Deputy Corporal Elio Diaz Tragically Killed in Line of Duty During Routine Traffic Stop; Gunman Andrew Mostyn Jr. Also Dead After Standoff with Deputies
Charlotte County, Florida – In a devastating loss for the Charlotte County community and law enforcement, Corporal Elio Diaz, a dedicated deputy with the Charlotte County Sheriff’s Office (CCSO), was fatally shot in the line of duty on Sunday afternoon, December 15, 2024. The tragic incident also claimed the life of the suspect, 24-year-old Andrew Mostyn Jr., following a standoff with deputies. Sheriff Bill Prummell confirmed the heartbreaking details in a somber press conference, sharing the immense grief felt by the department and the community.
The fatal series of events began around 4:00 PM when Corporal Diaz conducted a routine traffic stop on a white pickup truck at a Chevron gas station located at 4968 Tamiami Trail. The stop, which appeared uneventful at first, escalated into a deadly confrontation when Andrew Mostyn Jr. exited his vehicle armed with a rifle. Without warning, he opened fire on Corporal Diaz, who sustained life-threatening injuries before the gunman fled the scene in his truck.
Despite the heroic efforts of emergency medical personnel, Corporal Diaz succumbed to his injuries at ShorePoint Health, where he was pronounced dead. Sheriff Prummell delayed the release of information to ensure that Diaz’s family could be notified and given the opportunity to say their final goodbyes before the press briefing.
The Tragic Loss of Corporal Elio Diaz: A Hero Remembered
Corporal Elio Diaz, a long-serving member of the CCSO, was widely regarded as a dedicated, selfless, and courageous law enforcement officer. Known for his unwavering commitment to protecting his community, Diaz was a respected leader within the department and a beloved figure among his colleagues and neighbors. He leaves behind a grieving family, friends, and a community in shock over the senseless act of violence that took his life.
Diaz’s career in law enforcement spanned over a decade, during which he earned numerous commendations for his exemplary service. His colleagues remember him as a mentor, a trusted friend, and a role model. “Elio was the kind of person who made you want to be better,” said a fellow deputy during an emotional statement. “He wasn’t just a coworker; he was family.”
Outside of his professional life, Diaz was a devoted husband and father. He cherished his time with his family, often speaking of the pride he felt in his children and the love he shared with his wife. The loss of such a vibrant and compassionate individual has left an indelible void in the lives of those who knew him.
The Sequence of Events: A Deadly Encounter Unfolds
The events leading to the tragedy began with what seemed like a routine traffic stop. At approximately 4:00 PM on Sunday, Corporal Diaz pulled over a white pickup truck at the Chevron gas station along Tamiami Trail. Witnesses described the initial interaction as calm, with Corporal Diaz engaging the driver, later identified as Andrew Mostyn Jr., in conversation.
However, the situation took a deadly turn when Mostyn Jr. abruptly exited his vehicle, armed with a rifle, and opened fire on Diaz without provocation. The attack was swift and brutal, leaving Diaz critically wounded. Mostyn Jr. then fled the scene in his truck, leaving behind a scene of chaos and devastation.
Emergency medical personnel were immediately dispatched to the gas station, where they worked tirelessly to stabilize Diaz. He was transported to ShorePoint Health, where doctors and nurses fought valiantly to save his life. Despite their efforts, Diaz succumbed to his injuries, marking a tragic end to his life of service.
The Pursuit and Standoff: A Community on Edge
Following the shooting, deputies launched a countywide manhunt to locate Mostyn Jr., whose actions had placed the community in immediate danger. The search culminated in the parking lot of Popeye’s Louisiana Kitchen at 24471 Sandhill Boulevard, where deputies tracked Mostyn Jr.’s vehicle. Upon approach, Mostyn Jr. again displayed violent intent, aiming his rifle at the deputies, signaling a readiness to continue his attack.
Recognizing the imminent threat to public safety and themselves, deputies were forced to act. One deputy fired a shot, striking Mostyn Jr. in the head. He was airlifted to Gulf Coast Medical Center by AeroMed helicopter, where he was pronounced dead shortly before 9:00 PM on Sunday. The deputy who fired the fatal shot has been placed on administrative leave, a standard procedure in such cases, pending a thorough investigation.
Sheriff Prummell’s Statement: A Heartfelt Tribute to a Fallen Hero
During a press conference held late Sunday evening, Sheriff Bill Prummell addressed the community with a heavy heart. Fighting back tears, he expressed his condolences to Corporal Diaz’s family and praised the deputy’s unwavering dedication to his duties. “Elio was a hero in every sense of the word,” Prummell said. “He dedicated his life to serving and protecting others, and his loss is a tremendous blow to our agency and our community.”
Prummell also extended his gratitude to the deputies and first responders who worked tirelessly throughout the ordeal, emphasizing the bravery and professionalism they displayed in the face of danger. “Our deputies put their lives on the line every day, and today we were reminded of the immense sacrifices they make,” he said.
Remembering Corporal Diaz: A Legacy of Service and Sacrifice
As the community mourns the loss of Corporal Elio Diaz, tributes have poured in from colleagues, friends, and residents. A memorial has been established outside the Charlotte County Sheriff’s Office headquarters, where flowers, candles, and messages of support continue to accumulate. Vigils have been planned to honor Diaz’s memory and to stand in solidarity with his grieving family.
Diaz’s legacy is one of courage, compassion, and unwavering dedication to his community. His impact extended far beyond his role as a law enforcement officer, touching the lives of countless individuals through his kindness, mentorship, and selflessness. “Elio was the embodiment of what it means to serve,” said a fellow deputy. “He gave everything he had to this job and to this community. He will never be forgotten.”
The Investigation: Seeking Answers and Justice
Both the Chevron gas station and the Popeye’s parking lot remain active crime scenes as investigators work to piece together the sequence of events that led to the tragic outcome. The Charlotte County Sheriff’s Office, along with state and federal agencies, is conducting a thorough investigation to uncover any additional details about Mostyn Jr.’s motives and actions.
Sheriff Prummell has pledged transparency throughout the investigation, assuring the public that all findings will be shared in due course. “We owe it to Corporal Diaz and his family to ensure that every aspect of this incident is fully understood,” Prummell stated.
A Community in Mourning: Support for the Diaz Family
In the wake of the tragedy, the Charlotte County community has come together to support Corporal Diaz’s family. A GoFundMe campaign has been launched to assist with funeral expenses and to provide financial support for Diaz’s wife and children as they navigate this devastating loss. Local businesses and organizations have also pledged their support, with several hosting fundraisers and memorial events in Diaz’s honor.
The outpouring of love and solidarity has been a source of comfort for the family, who expressed their gratitude in a statement released through the Sheriff’s Office. “We are overwhelmed by the love and support we’ve received from the community,” the statement read. “Elio was our rock, and while our hearts are broken, we take solace in knowing how deeply he was loved and respected.”
The Road Ahead: Honoring Corporal Diaz’s Sacrifice
As the investigation continues and the community grapples with the loss of a beloved deputy, the focus remains on honoring Corporal Elio Diaz’s legacy and supporting his family. Plans are underway for a public memorial service, where friends, colleagues, and community members will have the opportunity to pay their respects.
Corporal Diaz’s death serves as a stark reminder of the dangers faced by law enforcement officers every day. It is a call to action for continued support, understanding, and appreciation for those who dedicate their lives to protecting others.
In this time of profound grief, the community of Charlotte County stands united in their resolve to remember and honor a true hero, Corporal Elio Diaz, whose life and service will forever be etched in their hearts.
