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NewsWFLA News TampaAugust 3, 2026Hillsborough County

Hillsborough County Sheriff's Office reports death of Communications Officer Elizabeth Ortega

Photo: WFLA News Tampa

The Hillsborough County Sheriff's Office announced the death of Communications Officer Elizabeth “Liz” Ortega, who was killed in a murder-suicide. Ortega had served with the agency for more than ten years.

Public SafetyLaw EnforcementTragedy
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Why It Matters

The agency has lost a long-term employee who served as a communications officer for over a decade.

Key Facts

  • Elizabeth Ortega served as a Communications Officer for the Hillsborough County Sheriff's Office.
  • Ortega had been employed by the agency for over a decade.
  • The sheriff's office confirmed Ortega was killed in a murder-suicide.

Who's Mentioned

OrganizationHillsborough County Sheriff's Office“The law enforcement agency employing the deceased”PersonElizabeth Ortega“Deceased communications officer for the Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Office.”PersonRalph Varela Jr.“Son of the deceased and a firefighter with Palm Beach County Fire Rescue.”OrganizationPalm Beach County Sheriff’s Office“Employer of the deceased.”OrganizationGreenacres Police Department“Former employer of Elizabeth Ortega.”OrganizationPort St. Lucie Police Department“Investigating agency for the incident.”PersonRalph Varela Sr.“Deceased partner of Elizabeth Ortega and alleged perpetrator.”