Ballistic vest saves Ind. cop from shotgun blast

As officers approached a house to investigate an earlier theft, a man came to the door and opened fire

By Police1 Staff

CLOVERDALE, Ind. — An officer is recovering after a theft suspect opened fire on police as they approached his house.

On Dec. 10, police were following up on an investigation into a retail-store theft, according to the Tribune Star. The investigation led officers to the house of Jeffrey R. Hunter, 48, who opened fire on them with a shotgun.

The gunfire hit Cloverdale Officer Luke Brown, 27, in the chest. Brown returned fire, shooting Hunter in the torso, the publication reported.

Brown aided Hunter with medical treatment until paramedics arrived. Both were transferred to the hospital for treatment.

Brown was wearing a ballistic vest when he was shot and sustained non-life-threatening injuries. He was released Sunday night from the hospital. Hunter was airlifted to an Indianapolis hospital for treatment.