Bodycam Takes the Bullet, Saving His Life [WATCH]

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.

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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.

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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.

The footage released by the sheriff’s office shows Rivera speaking with a neighbor before approaching the residence connected to the investigation.

The situation appeared routine until the suspect exited the home and began firing.

The video captures the moment Rivera was hit and his immediate response before the camera was disabled by the impact.

WATCH:

Investigators said Polanco later confessed to carrying out the attack. Authorities also stated that he admitted he was not taking medication prescribed for schizophrenia at the time of the shooting.

Officials said Polanco’s mother had previously warned authorities about his violent tendencies and history of failing to take his medication.

Polanco has pleaded not guilty to two counts of attempted murder.

He is scheduled to appear in court in May as the case proceeds through the legal system.

Rivera has since been released from medical care and is recovering at home from his injuries.

The sheriff’s office said the body camera footage provides a detailed account of the encounter, including the sequence of events leading up to the shooting and the immediate aftermath.

Officials noted that the device, worn as part of standard equipment, played a critical role in protecting the deputy during the incident.

The investigation remains active as prosecutors move forward with the charges against Polanco.

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