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.