Sheriff David William L. Mizell, Orange County Sheriff's Office, Florida

Sheriff David William L. Mizell

Orange County Sheriff's Office, Florida

End of Watch Monday, February 21, 1870

David William L. Mizell

Sheriff David Mizell was shot and killed after being ambushed while trying to settle a dispute over the sale of several head of cattle. Sheriff Mizell set out with his son and another man to locate the suspects. As they were crossing a stream they were ambushed and Sheriff Mizell was mortally wounded. As he lay dying in his son's arms he asked that his death not be avenged.

Nevertheless, a posse was formed and captured the suspected triggerman. He was tied to a plowshare and tossed over the side of a boat. When he failed to sink the posse shot and killed him in a volley of rifle fire.

Sheriff Mizell had previously served with the confederate army during the Civil War and was survived by his wife and five children. He is buried in the Mizell Family Graveyard in Orlando, Florida.

Bio

Age 36
Tour Not available
Badge Not available
Military Veteran

Incident Details

Cause Gunfire
Weapon Rifle
Offender Shot and killed

Most Recent Reflection

View all 13 Reflections

The Sheriffs of Florida and their deputies will never forget the sacrifice you and your family made to uphold our laws and protect society.

Your name has been inscribed on the Florida Sheriffs and the National Law Enforcement Memorial and in our hearts. May you forever rest in peace.

A scripture inscribed on the Florida Sheriffs Law Enforcement Memorial:

"Blessed are the peacemakers,
for they shall be called the children
of God." Matthew 5:9

Executive Director Steve Casey
Florida Sheriffs Association

August 27, 2016