Deputy's Body Camera Stops Bullet, Saves His Life in Gunfight

Volusia County sheriff says 'divine intervention' protected deputy during close-range shootout with suspect

Published on Mar. 4, 2026

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A Florida sheriff's deputy is recovering after his body-worn camera stopped a potentially fatal bullet during a gunfight with a suspect at a Deltona residence. The deputy and a trainee were investigating an earlier assault when the suspect, 31-year-old Luis Diaz Polanco, allegedly opened fire at close range, striking the deputy in the shoulder and leg. Authorities credit the deputy's body camera with saving his life by deflecting the bullet.

Why it matters

This incident highlights the life-saving potential of body-worn cameras for law enforcement, as well as the dangers officers face when responding to calls. It also raises concerns about the suspect's mental health history and prior encounters with police, which may have contributed to the violent confrontation.

The details

According to Volusia County Sheriff Mike Chitwood, Deputy José Rivera and trainee Deputy Jacob Gomez Lopez were investigating an earlier assault in DeLand when they arrived at Polanco's Deltona residence. When the deputies knocked on the door, Polanco allegedly slammed it shut and then retrieved a handgun, engaging Rivera in a close-range shootout. Rivera was struck in the shoulder and leg, but his body camera is credited with deflecting the bullet and saving his life.

  • The incident occurred on Monday, March 3, 2026.
  • Polanco was previously detained under the Florida Mental Health Act, also known as the Baker Act, in 2025.

The players

Deputy José Rivera

A Volusia County sheriff's deputy who was shot but saved by his body-worn camera during the gunfight.

Deputy Jacob Gomez Lopez

A trainee deputy who was with Rivera during the incident at the Deltona residence.

Luis Diaz Polanco

A 31-year-old suspect who allegedly opened fire on the deputies and was taken into custody at the scene.

Sheriff Mike Chitwood

The Volusia County sheriff who praised the life-saving role of the deputy's body camera during the press conference.

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What they’re saying

“Thank God for his body camera, takes a round dead center, in through the body camera, which we believe then ricocheted to his shoulder.”

— Sheriff Mike Chitwood (1011now.com)

“You got to believe in God if you're in a gun battle in that distance. There is no room except for divine intervention.”

— Sheriff Mike Chitwood (1011now.com)

What’s next

Polanco is expected to be charged with attempted murder following the investigation. The Volusia County Sheriff's Office will likely review its body camera policies and training to highlight the life-saving potential of the technology.

The takeaway

This incident underscores the critical role of body-worn cameras in protecting law enforcement officers and the public, particularly in high-risk situations. It also raises concerns about the need for improved mental health resources and intervention for individuals like Polanco who have a history of violent behavior.