In the Sunshine State, a tragedy has struck at the heart of our brave law enforcement community. Readers, grab your coffee and settle in, because this story of sacrifice and heroism is one you won’t want to miss. It’s a stark reminder of the dangers our men and women in blue face every day, and the critical role of the Florida Department of Law Enforcement in bringing justice when the unthinkable occurs.
The Ambush
Master Deputy Sheriff Bradley Michael Link, 28, made the ultimate sacrifice in the line of duty. Responding to what seemed like a routine disturbance call in rural Eustis, Lake County, Link and his fellow deputies walked into a nightmare.
As they entered the home, chaos unfolded. Sheriff Peyton Grinnell’s words paint a chilling picture: “When the deputies entered the home, there was a lot of gunfire.” The ambush left Link fatally wounded and two other deputies injured, one critically.
CONGRATULATIONS Florida Law Enforcement Analyst Academy Class 37 graduates! The 30 crime intelligence analysts represent 20 FL agencies, and 5 are #YourFDLE analysts, are are recognized as Florida-certified law enforcement analysts! https://t.co/ZSLUsCJqgd#CrimeAnalysts pic.twitter.com/tYk2sudhdR
— FDLE (@fdlepio) June 7, 2024
Sheriff Speaks Up
Sheriff Grinnell spoke highly of Link, saying the impact of his death would be remembered and that he “touched the lives” of those he worked with. According to him, Link “quickly became part of our family and faithfully served our citizens with courage and zeal.”
The Lake County Sheriff’s Office, now missing one of its own, faces the grim task of carrying on while honoring their fallen brother. Meanwhile, a GoFundMe was set up to support the family of the Master Deputy Sheriff.
FDLE Steps In
As the dust settles on this tragic event, the Florida Department of Law Enforcement (FDLE) has taken the reins of the investigation. Their involvement underscores the gravity of the situation and the need for a thorough, impartial examination of the facts.
The scene they’re tasked with unraveling is complex. Two suspects were found dead inside the home, with a third wounded. Multiple firearms, from handguns to long guns, were recovered, painting a picture of a heavily armed ambush that our deputies never saw coming.
Sources
- Officials ID Florida deputy sheriff killed in shooting that wounded 2 other deputies
- Florida deputy killed, 2 deputies wounded in shooting, authorities say: “They were ambushed”
