ORLANDO, Fla. – It has been one year since the death of Orange County Sheriff’s Lt. Eloilda “Ellie” Padilla Shea.
Lt. Shea was described as a respected law enforcement officer remembered by colleagues for her leadership, compassion and dedication to service.
What we know:
Tuesday, Oct. 14, marked one year since the death of Orange County Sheriff’s Lt. Eloilda “Ellie” Padilla Shea.
The longtime deputy was found with a gunshot wound to the head inside her home in 2024. Her estranged husband, former sheriff’s deputy Anthony Shea, called 911 claiming she had taken her own life. Investigators later ruled her death a homicide and charged him with murder days after the shooting.
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Detectives said the gun used in the shooting did not contain Ellie Shea’s fingerprints on the trigger — only Anthony Shea’s.
They also found an audio recording on her phone that captured part of the incident, which investigators say indicated he did not react emotionally to her condition until the 911 dispatcher answered his call.
What we don’t know:
Prosecutors have not publicly discussed a clear motive in the case, and details about the defense’s arguments remain limited ahead of trial.
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Questions also remain about how the couple’s strained marriage and Anthony Shea’s prior resignation from the sheriff’s office may factor into the proceedings.
The backstory:
Before her death, Ellie Shea was known as a respected leader within the Orange County Sheriff’s Office, remembered for her compassion and mentorship. Her husband had resigned from the agency months earlier during an internal investigation into an alleged years-long affair with another woman while on duty.
Big picture view:
Shea’s death rocked the sheriff’s office, leaving behind two young children and a grieving law enforcement community. A year later, colleagues continue to honor her memory.
What they’re saying:
The Orange County Sheriff’s Office honored Shea’s memory on social media in a post:
“Ellie was not only a remarkable law enforcement officer but also a radiant light within our agency and throughout the community. In her 13 years with OCSO she emerged as a mentor, advocate, and a powerful inspiration for women in the ranks.
“As a loving mother to two precious little girls, Ellie embodied grace, love and pride. Her absence leaves a profound void in our hearts.
“Her family at the Orange County Sheriff’s Office is committed to honoring her legacy.
“This poem is dedicated to her girls and their extended family. Ellie will always be “The Light That Forever Shines.”
The video was introduced by Sheriff Mina, who said, “This poem is dedicated to our beloved Lt. Ellie Padilla Shea and the beautiful legacy she left behind. You truly are, ‘The Light That Forever Shines.'”
‘The Light That Forever Shines’
Just hearing your name brings a smile. We’d give anything to hear your voice just one more time.
Although you’re not with us, your light still shines.
We hold tight to your memory every day. The best memories of you are never far away.
We will forever honor your name.
Although you’re at peace, our hearts still grieve. Your legacy means you will never truly leave.
Like the stars in the night sky, your memory is our guiding light. Please know, that in our care, your girls will always be alright.
We’ll make sure they know about their mommy now and through the years. And we’ll always be there to wipe away their tears.
For we now carry your light, tried and true. It makes us shine like we always did with you.
Forever bright, beautiful, and bold. We promise your story will always be told.
Your luminous presence will always guide us.
Rest in eternal peace, Eloilda “Ellie” Padilla Shea. We know we will see you again one day.
What’s next:
Anthony Shea’s trial is scheduled to start in February.
The Source: This story was written based on information shared by the Orange County Sheriff’s Office.