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A Volusia County sheriff’s deputy in Deltona, Florida, survived a close-range shooting in March after a bullet struck and was deflected by his body-worn camera, according to footage released by the Volusia County Sheriff’s Office and statements from law enforcement officials.
The incident occurred on Sunday, March 1, as Deputy Jose Rivera and a trainee responded to a call involving an assault and battery investigation.
Authorities said the deputies arrived at a residence to speak with a suspect identified as Luis Diaz Polanco.
According to officials and the body camera video, Rivera and his partner initially made contact in the area and attempted to engage with Polanco.
The suspect ran back inside the residence before returning moments later.
When he came back outside, investigators said he opened fire at close range on the deputies.
One of the bullets struck Rivera’s body-worn camera, which was positioned on his chest.
Officials said the impact likely prevented a fatal injury.
Additional rounds hit Rivera in the arm and thigh during the encounter.
Sheriff Mike Chitwood addressed the incident and the suspect’s actions, stating, “There is no doubt in my mind he had every intention when those deputies knocked on that door to kill them.”
Initial reports indicated Rivera had suffered two gunshot wounds.
Medical evaluations later determined that he had been struck three times during the shooting.