A Florida deputy is recovering after a dramatic shooting incident where his body-worn camera likely saved his life. Authorities say the device took the direct impact of a bullet during the encounter, preventing a potentially fatal chest wound. The suspect is now in custody and faces serious charges related to the attack on law enforcement.
Deputy Shot While Responding to Call
The shooting happened Monday night in Deltona when deputies from the Volusia County Sheriff’s Office responded to a report about a damaged vehicle.
According to Mike Chitwood, deputies went to a home on Candler Drive to investigate the complaint. When they approached the residence, the suspect suddenly opened fire.
One of the deputies involved was Jose Rivera, who had joined the sheriff’s office in 2023.
Body Camera Stopped Bullet
Sheriff Chitwood said Rivera’s body-worn camera absorbed a bullet that struck him in the chest area.
Authorities believe the bullet hit the device directly, reducing the impact before deflecting.
According to investigators:
- The bullet struck the body camera in the center of Rivera’s chest
- It then ricocheted into his shoulder
- Another bullet hit his leg
Officials believe the camera likely prevented the shot from penetrating his chest and causing more severe injuries.
Gunfire Exchange Outside the Home
Police say the suspect, identified as Luis Diaz Polanco, fired repeatedly at deputies as they approached the house.
Investigators reported that:
- Polanco fired 12 rounds
- Rivera returned fire six times while retreating for cover
The sheriff said evidence at the scene showed a trail of shell casings leading from the front door down the driveway, suggesting the suspect continued firing as Rivera moved away.
Deputies Rushed Rivera to Hospital
Body camera footage released by the sheriff’s office shows deputies quickly helping Rivera after he was wounded.
Officers applied a tourniquet to his leg before placing him in a patrol vehicle and rushing him to the hospital.
Rivera was treated for his injuries and later released on Wednesday.
Officials say he is expected to make a full recovery.
Suspect Arrested at the Scene
After the shooting, deputies took Polanco into custody at the residence.
Authorities later discovered that weeks before the incident, Polanco had used a Spanish-language AI chatbot to ask questions about whether he could legally shoot someone who came onto his property.
The chatbot reportedly provided an explanation of Florida’s “Stand Your Ground” law.
Investigators say Polanco later admitted he intended to shoot the deputies when they arrived.
Charges Filed Against Suspect
Polanco is now facing serious criminal charges connected to the shooting.
| Charge | Description |
|---|---|
| Attempted first-degree murder of a law enforcement officer (2 counts) | Allegedly trying to kill deputies |
| Use of a firearm in a violent felony | Gun used during the attack |
Officials say Polanco is currently being held without bond.
Deputy Rivera’s Background
Deputy Rivera joined the sheriff’s office in 2023 and is also a U.S. Army veteran.
Authorities say he is the father of three young children.
Sheriff Chitwood said Rivera is recovering well and is already eager to return to work once he is fully healed.
