Crime
Charlotte County Corporal Elio Diaz shot and killed during traffic stop in Southwest Florida, suspect Andrew Mostyn Jr dead
The suspect 24-year-old Andrew Mostyn Jr fled and was subsequently shot and killed by a responding deputy.
Charlotte County, FL – Sheriff Bill Prummell has released further details regarding a tragic incident on Sunday afternoon that claimed the lives of Charlotte County Sheriff’s Office (CCSO) Corporal Elio Diaz and the suspect, 24-year-old Andrew Mostyn Jr.
The incident began around 4:00 PM when Corporal Diaz initiated a routine traffic stop on a white pickup truck at the Chevron gas station located at 4968 Tamiami Trail.
During the stop, Mostyn Jr. exited his vehicle and opened fire on Diaz with a rifle before fleeing the scene in his truck.
Deputies later tracked Mostyn Jr. to the parking lot of Popeye’s Louisiana Kitchen at 24471 Sandhill Boulevard.
When deputies attempted to approach him, Mostyn Jr. aimed his rifle at them, appearing to prepare for another attack.
In response to the imminent threat, one deputy fired at Mostyn Jr., striking him in the head.
He was airlifted to Gulf Coast Medical Center by AeroMed helicopter but succumbed to his injuries and was pronounced dead shortly before 9:00 PM Sunday.
Corporal Diaz was rushed to ShorePoint Health by emergency medical personnel.
Despite life-saving efforts, he was pronounced dead at the hospital. Sheriff Prummell delayed releasing information to ensure Diaz’s family had the opportunity to be notified and say their final goodbyes at the hospital before the press conference.
Both the Chevron gas station and Popeye’s Louisiana Kitchen remain active but scaled-down crime scenes as investigators continue to gather evidence.
Deputies remain posted at both locations to ensure public safety and secure the areas.
Sheriff Prummell expressed his condolences to Corporal Diaz’s family, acknowledging their loss and the tremendous sacrifice Diaz made in the line of duty.
The investigation into the incident is ongoing, and additional updates will be provided as they become available.
SANTA ANA, CA — Community members are expressing outrage and concern following the release of Alejandro Acosta Oliveros, a 45-year-old Santa Ana resident, who has been accused of abducting, torturing, and killing numerous cats throughout Orange County.
Despite the serious nature of the allegations, Oliveros has been released on bail and is now back in the community as the investigation continues.
Dubbed a “serial cat killer” by law enforcement, Oliveros was arrested earlier this week after Santa Ana Police officers executed a search warrant at his residence on Wilshire Avenue.
Authorities reported that Oliveros confessed to the crimes during questioning, though the full extent of his actions remains under active investigation.
Officials have yet to determine how many animals were harmed, but investigators have stated that the number is believed to be “significant.”
According to a spokesperson for the Santa Ana Police Department, “We are still working to determine the scope of this case and how many cats may have been victimized. The cruelty involved is deeply disturbing.”
Community concern has mounted in recent weeks, as residents across Santa Ana and neighboring areas began sharing surveillance footage and firsthand reports of cats being lured, abducted, and later found injured or deceased.
One widely shared video from March 21 in Westminster showed a man, believed to be Oliveros, capturing Clubber, a 10-month-old Bengal Lynx cat.
While Clubber was eventually recovered and returned to his home, the suspect remained at large—until his arrest this week.
Disturbing reports later emerged indicating that many of the missing cats may have been killed. Posts from platforms like Nextdoor recounted chilling details of cats being restrained or allegedly injected with unknown substances.
In one report, a neighbor stated: “We saw the man tie a cat’s legs and walk off toward McFadden.” Another added: “My neighbor’s cat was killed. He was injected with something and didn’t survive.”
Despite the severity of the charges, Oliveros was released on bail shortly after his arrest.
This development has alarmed residents, animal advocates, and grieving pet owners who say they now fear for the safety of their pets—and for the wellbeing of their community.
“This is not just about one person’s loss. This is about protecting countless animals who deserve safety, love, and life,” said one resident. “We need to remain vigilant, speak out, and demand justice.”
The public is strongly encouraged to take the following steps:
- Report any suspicious behavior toward animals to local law enforcement or animal control immediately.
- Speak with neighbors and friends to raise awareness about the situation.
- Contact local officials and media outlets to demand accountability and advocate for stricter laws to prevent animal cruelty.
- Support victims and families who are grieving the loss of beloved pets.
The Santa Ana Police Department has stated that formal charges are expected to be filed soon and emphasized that the investigation is ongoing.
Authorities continue to gather evidence and encourage anyone with information to come forward.
Anyone with relevant information is urged to contact the Santa Ana Police Department at (714) 245-8665.
The community’s continued cooperation and vigilance will be essential in seeking justice for the animals affected and ensuring that those responsible are held fully accountable.