NewsWFLA News Channel 8 (Florida)August 3, 2026Hillsborough County
Hillsborough County Sheriff's Office reports death of Communications Officer Elizabeth Ortega
Photo: WFLA News Channel 8 (Florida)
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.
Read the full story at WFLA News Channel 8 (Florida)Why It Matters
The incident results in the loss of a long-term public safety employee within the Hillsborough County Sheriff's Office.
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 agency confirmed Ortega was killed in a murder-suicide.
Who's Mentioned
OrganizationHillsborough County Sheriff's Office“The law enforcement agency reporting the incident”PersonElizabeth Ortega“Communications officer for the Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Office who was killed”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.“Partner of Elizabeth Ortega, identified by police as the perpetrator of the murd”