Following a deadly shooting at a nightclub in Orlando, the Orlando Police Department have released a photo of a helmet that saved the lives of one of their officers.
The officer, who has not been identified, was one of several officers who exchanged gunfire with the suspect in the Pulse nightclub in Orlando in which 50 were killed and 53 others were injured. The officer was struck in the head but is reportedly fine, according to officers, who said that the Kevlar helmet saved the officer’s life.
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The suspect exchanged gunfire with an officer working at the gay club known as Pulse around 2 a.m., when more than 300 people were inside. The gunman then went back inside and took hostages, Police Chief John Mina said.
Around 5 a.m., authorities sent in a SWAT team to rescue the hostages.
Pulse shooting: In hail of gunfire in which suspect was killed, OPD officer was hit. Kevlar helmet saved his life. pic.twitter.com/MAb0jGi7r4
— Orlando Police (@OrlandoPolice) June 12, 2016
Officers also thanked the community for the support of officers, as several people dropped off food and drinks at the command post for officers.
We want to thank the community for your support. Food/drinks have been dropped off. We have plenty at command post. pic.twitter.com/2eV4vSk3hP
— Orlando Police (@OrlandoPolice) June 12, 2016
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