Master Deputy Sheriff Bradley Michael Link, 28, was fatally shot in an ambush-style attack Friday night in Eustis, Florida. Two other deputies, Deputy First Class Stefano Gargano and Master Deputy Sheriff Harold Howell, were also wounded during the incident and remain hospitalized in critical condition.
In a tragic turn of events, the Lake County Sheriff's Office was rocked by an ambush attack Friday night that resulted in the death of Master Deputy Sheriff Bradley Michael Link, 28. Two other deputies, Deputy First Class Stefano Gargano, 28, and Master Deputy Sheriff Harold Howell, 41, sustained critical injuries.
Ambush in Eustis: Florida Deputy Killed, Two Others Critically Injured
At approximately 8 p.m., deputies responded to a disturbance call at a residence on Brookside Drive in Eustis. Upon arrival, they encountered a chaotic scene and entered the home to investigate. As the first deputy, Link, stepped inside, he was met with gunfire and became trapped within the residence. Despite heroic efforts to save him, Link succumbed to his injuries.
Link, an Army Reserves veteran and a dedicated member of the Lake County Sheriff's Office, leaves behind a grieving family, including his wife, Brittany. Deputy Gargano was shot multiple times in the armpit and stomach during an attempt to rescue Link. He has undergone multiple surgeries and is currently listed in critical condition.
Ambush in Eustis: Florida Deputy Killed, Two Others Critically Injured
Deputy Howell, who has served Lake County since 2005, was shot in the shoulder while also aiding in the rescue effort. He remains in stable condition. Both Gargano and Howell are receiving treatment at HCA Florida Lake Monroe Hospital in Sanford.
To add to the tragedy, two individuals inside the home were found deceased. It is currently unknown whether the deaths were the result of a murder-suicide or caused by law enforcement action. A third person was transported to the hospital for treatment.
Ambush in Eustis: Florida Deputy Killed, Two Others Critically Injured
No suspects have been apprehended in the case, and the Florida Department of Law Enforcement is leading the investigation. The Lake County Sheriff's Office expressed profound sorrow over the loss of Deputy Link and praised his selfless service.
"Brad touched the lives of all who were blessed enough to work with him," the Sheriff's Office stated in a Facebook post. "His contributions and the impact of this loss will not soon be forgotten."
The community and law enforcement agencies across the nation have extended their condolences and offered prayers for the recovery of Gargano and Howell. The incident has reignited discussions about the dangers faced by law enforcement officers and the importance of supporting those who risk their lives in the line of duty.
As the investigation continues, the Lake County Sheriff's Office and the community mourn the loss of a dedicated and brave deputy, while praying for the recovery of the injured deputies. The incident serves as a somber reminder of the sacrifices made by law enforcement officers who put their lives on the line to protect and serve their communities.
