Find out more about Sgt. Gary Morales, his alleged killer and how you can help the family left behind.
St. Lucie County Sheriff Ken Mascara details (above) the shooting death of Sgt. Gary Morales. He says the last time a member of the agency was killed by gunfire in the line of duty was 98 years ago, in 1915.
Mascara also gives more information about Morales, a man he refers to as one of his 600 children, saying "we lost a hero today".
The 35 year old leaves behind a wife, two young daughters and a brother, who also works for the SLC Sheriff's Office.
He was allegedly killed by Eriese Tisdale after trying to pull the man over. The way the Sheriff tells it, Tisdale got out of his vehicle and shot Morales before the deputy-sergeant could get out of his cruiser or reach for a gun.
How you can help the family of Sgt. Gary Morales, who was killed in the line of duty on Thursday:
The Hundred Club of St. Lucie County is a nonprofit charitable group which provides financial support to families of law enforcement officers and other public safety officials, including those who are injured or killed in the line of duty.
The organization has contacted Morales’ family which includes his wife and two young daughters.
The organization can help with such things as funeral and family expenses including transportation and meals.
For more information, call 772-462-3205 or 772-462-3205.
Tax-deductible contributions may be mailed to the Hundred Club of St. Lucie County, c/o Tammy Schwab, St. Lucie County Sheriff’s Office, 4700 W. Midway Road, Fort Pierce, FL 34981-4825.
Original Story:
A 13 year veteran of the St. Lucie County Sheriff's Office was shot and killed on Thursday after making a traffic stop south of Fort Pierce.
Sgt. Gary Morales was in his patrol car when a suspect got out of his vehicle and fired shots. Deputies chased the man until he crashed his car. That's when they apprehended the suspect.
The 3200 block of Oleander Avenue in unincorporated St. Lucie County had to be shut down, while the investigation continues.
Another SLC deputy was shot on Wednesday night, while responding to a domestic violence call. That deputy is expected to survive.
