On March 19, 2012 Chicago Police Officer Del Pearson was in foot pursuit of an armed suspect when the offender turned and opened fire. Officer Pearson was saved by his Second Chance® MR01 Monarch® Armor when he was hit in the center of his chest with the rst .38 caliber round. Unfortunately, he was shot a second time severing a main artery under his left arm outside of the vest area and leaving him critically wounded.
Fast actions by his Sergeant and partners ensured that Officer Pearson was transported to the hospital quickly, where trauma surgeons were able to save him. His armor was then taken into evidence where they recovered the round that hit his Second Chance vest above his heart.
Once the suspect and weapon was apprehended, the round recovered from Officer Pearson’s Second Chance Armor was found to be a perfect match. Officer Pearson, a married father of two, wrote a thank you letter to Safariland: “Had I not been wearing my Second Chance Vest, I would certainly be dead today.”
Officer Pearson is recovering well.
We welcome Officer Del Pearson – Save #1823 to the Safariland Saves Club.
