On December 23, 2020 Trooper Matthew Merrill conducted a traffic stop in Northern New Hampshire. As Trooper Merrill was attempting to take the driver into custody, the driver pulled a .45 ACP and shot Trooper Merrill. The round struck the bottom edge of his Safariland® SX02 Level II armor and deflected down, striking his pelvis area. The assailant moved to retrieve an SKS style rifle and shot Trooper Merrill again, this time striking him in the foot. Trooper Merrill was able to move to his vehicle, retrieve his patrol rifle and return fire – ending the threat.
Trooper Merrill has recovered from the gunshot wounds and has returned to full duty.
We welcome Trooper Matthew Merrill, SAVE #2126, to The Safariland Group SAVES Club®.
