Patrolman Walter Demitrie Ilyankoff

Walter Demitrie Ilyankoff

Patrolman Walter Ilyankoff was shot and killed after responding to a robbery alarm at a Red Lobster restaurant on a Sunday morning at 5950 North Federal Highway.

Suspecting a false alarm, he knocked on the rear door expecting the kitchen staff to answer. Instead, one of the suspects opened the door and shot him. He was able to call for assistance on his radio before succumbing to his wounds.

Prior to Patrolman Ilyankoff's arrival, one of the suspects had raped one of the waitresses during the robbery. The woman was able to identify the suspect and testified against him at the trial. Her testimony contributed to his conviction and death sentence. The suspect died in prison while awaiting execution. The other three suspects were convicted and are still serving prison sentences.

Patrolman Ilyankoff had served with the Fort Lauderdale Police Department for 14 years. He was survived by his wife and son.