Miami-Dade Mourns Deputy Devin Jaramillo, Killed in Line of Duty; Suspect Battled Mental Health Struggles

A tragic incident in Miami-Dade has sent shockwaves through the community, leading to the line of duty death of Miami-Dade Sheriff’s Office Deputy Devin Jaramillo. The suspect in this law enforcement tragedy, 21-year-old Steven David Rustrian, reportedly struggled with mental health challenges, according to statements from his family. This news marks a somber moment for the region, highlighting the inherent dangers faced by law enforcement officers like Deputy Devin Jaramillo.

Remembering Deputy Devin Jaramillo

Deputy Devin Jaramillo, 27, was tragically killed on Friday, November 7, 2025, while on duty in the Kendall District. He had been dispatched to investigate what was described as a minor traffic crash near Southwest 128th Street and 122nd Avenue. Deputy Devin Jaramillo, a respected member of the Miami-Dade Sheriff’s Office (MDSO) since May 2024, followed in the footsteps of his father, David Jaramillo, a retired MDSO detective. He previously served with the Coral Gables Police Department for nearly four years, earning Officer of the Month in July 2023 for his work on theft cases. Colleagues and superiors remembered Deputy Devin Jaramillo as a “homegrown hero,” a dedicated public servant, a “legacy kid” who embodied courage, professionalism, and compassion. He was a magna cum laude graduate of the University of Central Florida with a degree in criminal justice and had interned with the FBI. His promising career was cut short, leaving a profound void in the law enforcement community and the Miami area following this traffic stop incident.

The Fatal Confrontation Involving Deputy Devin Jaramillo

According to official reports and witness accounts, the incident began when Steven David Rustrian was involved in a minor traffic accident. Instead of stopping, Rustrian reportedly fled the scene and pulled into a nearby parking lot, where he switched seats with his passenger. Deputy Jaramillo arrived to investigate and, after speaking with the passenger who admitted Rustrian was the driver, approached Rustrian’s vehicle.

What started as a routine traffic investigation quickly escalated into a physical altercation. Surveillance video reportedly shows Jaramillo attempting to subdue Rustrian, but during the struggle, Rustrian managed to grab the deputy’s service weapon. He then shot Deputy Jaramillo multiple times before retreating to his own car and taking his own life with the deputy’s gun. First responders and bystanders attempted to provide aid to Deputy Jaramillo, who was transported to HCA Florida Kendall Hospital, where he was later pronounced dead. The loss of Deputy Devin Jaramillo is a profound law enforcement tragedy.

Suspect’s Background and Reported Struggles

The suspect, Steven David Rustrian, 21, had ties to New York, where records indicate an arrest for reckless driving during a police pursuit. Investigators have been in contact with Rustrian’s family, who have indicated that he served in the military and had been dealing with mental health issues. While the initial context suggested financial difficulties, the primary focus in available reports from family statements has been on mental health challenges. Authorities have not released extensive details regarding Rustrian’s specific background beyond his age and address within Miami-Dade.

Official Response and Community Grief for Deputy Devin Jaramillo

Miami-Dade Sheriff Rosie Cordero-Stutz expressed profound grief and anger over the loss of Deputy Jaramillo, stating, “What happened to our deputy was not okay… He gave the ultimate sacrifice—his life defending this community”. She emphasized that the incident was not an ambush but a violent escalation during a traffic stop incident. The death of Deputy Jaramillo has united law enforcement agencies across South Florida in mourning. Hundreds of first responders gathered outside the hospital and along the route to the medical examiner’s office to honor the fallen officer, a testament to the deep respect and camaraderie within the service.

Miami-Dade Mayor Daniella Levine Cava and State Attorney Katherine Fernandez Rundle also offered condolences, highlighting the risks law enforcement officers face daily and the devastating impact of such violence. The Miami-Dade Sheriff’s Office has initiated a comprehensive investigation into the circumstances surrounding the shooting, with the Florida Department of Law Enforcement providing assistance.

A Community Remembers and Supports Deputy Devin Jaramillo

Deputy Jaramillo’s death has prompted an outpouring of support for his family. The Police Officers Assistance Trust (POAT) is collecting donations to directly aid his loved ones during this “unimaginable loss”. The case serves as a stark reminder of the dangers faced by those who wear the badge and the sacrifices they make to ensure public safety. As the investigation continues, the Miami-Dade community grieves for Deputy Devin Jaramillo, honoring his service, sacrifice, and legacy as a dedicated protector of the public. The memory of Deputy Devin Jaramillo will endure.

This news is a significant development in Miami-Dade, and the impact is still unfolding. The community is focused on supporting the fallen officer’s family and reflecting on the bravery of law enforcement officers. This tragic event remains a trending topic, underscoring the profound sense of loss and the importance of remembering Deputy Jaramillo’s ultimate sacrifice. The latest news surrounding this case continues to draw attention across the region.