On September 6, 2025, Hidalgo County Sheriff’s Office deputies were involved in an officer-involved shooting while executing a search warrant at a residence in Alton, Texas. The warrant was connected to a homicide investigation earlier that day in rural Mission, Texas, where a male was found fatally shot in what investigators described as a drug deal that escalated into violence. Deputies identified the suspect and located him at the Alton residence.
Deputy Manuel Clarke was serving as the SWAT breacher that day, outfitted in his Project 7 Scalable Entry Vest (SEV). Upon entering the final bedroom, the suspect, armed with a 9mm pistol, fired directly at Manuel, discharging approximately 15 rounds. Manuel was struck three times. One round impacted his ballistic helmet, preventing what could have been a catastrophic head injury. A second round struck his duty magazine. A third round struck him in the chest, impacting his radio/transmitter; fragmentation from that impact caused a non-life-threatening injury to his upper left arm. Manuel’s protective equipment, including his ballistic helmet, Safariland® DTC1 Plate, Safariland® SX02 IIIA Soft Armor, and properly positioned duty gear, was credited with preventing penetrating trauma to vital areas. Deputies returned fire, and the suspect was pronounced deceased at the scene.
Manuel was treated on scene and transported to the hospital for evaluation, then released. He made a full recovery and returned to duty weeks later, but not before marrying the very next month.
In a press briefing following the incident, Hidalgo County Sheriff Eddie Guerra emphasized the importance of preparation and equipment, stating, “This weekend’s incident is a clear reminder of how crucial preparation is. The protective gear and constant training of deputies play a constant role in saving lives during this crucial incident.”
This marks the 2nd Save in our partnership with Aardvark Tactical
We welcome Deputy Manuel Clarke as Save #2278 to The Safariland Group Saves Club®.