As a member of the ERT, Officer Bernier, participated in an entry detail where the Hartford PD Narcotics Task Force worked in conjunction with the FBI. After the operation was successfully completed, while enroute to the debriefing location, the Ryder truck they used in the operation struck an underpass which ripped part of the top of the truck completely off. Officer Bernier was struck from behind with parts of the metal and wood interior of the truck as well as cement from the underpass. His Kevlar helmet and goggles were torn off and he was knocked unconscious. His radio which was on the back of his Cover 6 vest was crushed from the impact. Although Officer Bernier suffered a fractured lower vertebrae , two chipped vertebrae in his neck and facial lacerations, he feels certain his vest prevented his injuries from being more serious if not fatal. He also mentioned that his pistol stayed secure in his 6004 tactical thigh holster throughout the incident.
We welcome, Officer Jim Bernie, SAVE #1492, to The Safariland Group SAVES CLUB®.
