On August 8, 2020, Officer Justin Pruett was dispatched to a call for vehicle entry complaints. While investigating the complaint, he spotted 2 individuals matching the description given of the suspects. Officer Pruett attempted to speak with the 2 individuals, but they were uncooperative. One suspect began to turn and run, but then stopped and turned back grabbing for his waist band area. Officer Pruett attempted to deploy his Electronic Control Device, but it did not incapacitate the suspect who drew a handgun from his waist band and fired 2 rounds. Officer Pruett was hit both on and off the armor. His Safariland XT03 level IIIA armor stopped the round that hit his torso. He was able to move to cover and stay in the gunfight. He returned fire wounding the assailant. Other officers on scene began life saving efforts. Officer Pruett was rushed to the hospital and has made a full recovery and returned to full duty.
The suspect fled the scene but was apprehended later by U.S. Marshals and charged with multiple felonies.
We welcome Officer Justin Pruett, SAVE #2159, to The Safariland Group SAVES Club
