In a harrowing incident that unfolded in 2008, Jared Reston, a retired Police Officer from the Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office, emerged as a living testament to resilience and courage. Facing off against a shoplifter, Jared was shot seven times but miraculously survived, eventually reclaiming his life. This is the extraordinary tale of his survival and remarkable recovery.
The incident occurred on a seemingly routine Saturday evening at a local mall, where Jared, alongside fellow Officer Chris Brown, was assigned to provide security. It was January 2008 when a report of suspected shoplifting threw them into a life-altering situation.
The link to listen to the Law Enforcement Talk Radio Show and Podcast interview with Jared Reston can be found at the bottom of this article.
Around 7:45 p.m., the mall's vigilant loss prevention officers identified two individuals exhibiting suspicious behavior. Promptly, they summoned police assistance, leading Jared and Chris to the scene.
As the suspects resisted security's attempts to apprehend them, the two officers stepped in to restore order. While one suspect was successfully detained by security, the other made a daring escape, sprinting across the mall's parking lot and onto an expressway. This reckless dash ignited a heart-pounding foot pursuit led by Jared Reston.
Amid the pursuit, the fleeing suspect ignored repeated commands to halt, instead brandishing a firearm. In the ensuing exchange of gunfire, Jared's life hung in the balance. Remarkably, his bulletproof vest absorbed three bullets targeted at his chest, shielding him from a potentially fatal fate. However, he sustained grievous injuries to his face, leg, and buttocks during the high-stakes shootout.
This life-threatening episode was meticulously documented in a sheriff's office report, highlighting the extraordinary bravery and resilience displayed by Jared and his colleague.
The link to listen to the Law Enforcement Talk Radio Show and Podcast interview with Jared Reston can be found at the bottom of this article.
Jared's astounding bravery did not go unnoticed. His actions during the January 2008 shooting earned him a string of prestigious awards, including the "Medal of Valor" from the President of the United States, the coveted title of "National Police Officer of the Year" from the American Police and Hall of Fame, the esteemed "Florida Police Officer of the Year" accolade from the Fraternal Order of Police, and the honorable "Law Enforcement Officer of the Year" award bestowed by the State of Florida.
This remarkable journey of survival and unwavering dedication serves as a poignant reminder of the unyielding spirit that defines law enforcement officers and their resolute commitment to safeguarding our communities. Jared Reston's story continues to inspire, serving as a beacon of hope and resilience in the face of adversity.
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