Bradley Link

Master Deputy     LCSO

Master Deputy Bradley Michael Link gave his life in the line of duty while responding to a late-night disturbance call in Eustis on Aug. 2, 2024 that lasted hours. His “end of watch” was pronounced in the early hours of August 3. 

Link entered the home with other deputies and was met with gunfire. Even after being shot and trapped inside, authorities say he returned fire, helping give other deputies a chance to escape. Later, at an awards ceremony, a Lake County Sheriff’s Office spokesman said Link died a hero and presented his wife with the agency’s Purple Heart and Medal of Honor. 

Link’s connection to law enforcement began as a Lake County Sheriff’s Office Explorer. After graduation from Lake Minneola High School in 2015, Link served in the Army Reserve and worked for the Polk County Sheriff’s Office before returning to Lake County as a deputy in 2019. 

Those who knew him remembered him as humble, kind and deeply committed to helping others. Former teachers described him as someone who would “do anything for anybody,” while colleagues and family remembered his quiet character, faith and devotion to service. 

His legacy lives on with plans for a scholarship in hishonor, and in 2025, a portion of U.S. Highway 27 in Minneola was renamed for him.