DELTONA, Fla. – A Volusia County Sheriff’s Office deputy shot while on duty is speaking out for the first time, crediting his body camera with saving his life. Deputy Jose Rivera was shot three times March 2 at a home in Deltona.
One of those rounds struck his body camera, which investigators say likely prevented a fatal injury.
“It definitely is humbling, realizing how quickly your life could have been taken and then realizing who you’re leaving behind,” Rivera said.
Rivera is expected to make a full recovery. He spoke with News 6 for his first interview since the March shooting, saying the experience left a lasting impression — but that he is eager to return to work.
“I’m just grateful that I will have the opportunity to still see my family, and grow with them, and see my kids grow up,” he said.
Investigators say Rivera and his trainee responded to the home of Luis Diaz Polanco to question him about a vandalism call. According to the sheriff, body camera footage shows the deputies spotted Polanco before he went back inside. Polanco then reopened the door and, the sheriff says, aimed directly at Rivera.
The sheriff says one bullet struck Rivera’s thigh, another hit his shoulder and a third struck the body camera mounted on his chest. Just last week, investigators were able to salvage footage from the shattered camera.
“It’s reliving the moment... bringing back the emotions a little bit,” Rivera said about watching the video.
Rivera also checked in with the trainee who was with him that day and was not hit, saying the incident will not stop either of them from continuing to serve.
“We were able to get him, able to capture him, get him in custody and all that, and that’s what I’m happy about, and obviously, my health too. I’m happy that I’m healthy and ready to get back to work. So not to look on the negative at all,” Rivera said.
Rivera is returning to light duty this week, which is expected to last about a month. After that, he says he will become a K-9 handler on the sheriff’s office’s Crime Suppression Team. He says it is the community’s support that continues to motivate him.
“Honestly, it’s the community. The community, seeing the support behind them and the agency, it motivates me to get back,” Rivera said.