A Pinellas County Sheriff's Office deputy, Troy Savetz, fatally shot his ex-girlfriend before taking his own life following an argument about a television, according to Sheriff Bob Gualtieri.
The victim has been identified by friends as Mandy Fackler, who leaves behind two children, ages 12 and 9. Savetz, 47, had been with the sheriff's office for 14 years and was a member of the marine unit.
According to Gualtieri, Savetz was waiting outside Fackler's home on Monday evening when she returned with her children from a day at the beach. Savetz, armed with a gun, confronted Fackler about wanting his television set back. When Fackler attempted to call 911, Savetz took her phone and instructed her two children to go inside, which they did. The children have been reunited with their biological father.
Authorities launched a search using K-9 units, drones, and aviation. Approximately 90 minutes after the altercation, Savetz's vehicle was located in nearby Spring Hill. Upon approaching the car, officers discovered both Savetz and Fackler deceased inside. It remains unclear at what point Savetz killed Fackler and then himself.
Pasco County Sheriff Chris Nocco commended the children for their bravery and quick thinking in calling 911 and providing essential information that aided in the identification of Savetz. "Your mom is looking down from heaven, and she's so proud of you two," Nocco told the children, referencing their obedience and their mother's instruction to seek safety and call for help.
Savetz had a history of commendations during his tenure with the Pinellas County Sheriff's Office. In 2014, he was recognized for heroic actions in preventing a man from jumping off a bridge. He also received recognition from the Tampa Bay Rays and was named an ambassador for the Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals in Tampa Bay in 2018. Sheriff Gualtieri stated that Savetz's alleged actions immediately ended his identity as a law enforcement officer, classifying him as a criminal. Mandy Fackler, the victim, had an "on-again-off-again, tumultuous relationship" with Savetz, Gualtieri said.