GA Deputy Shot in Vest, Apprehends Suspect

A Jones County, GA, deputy was shot early Sunday morning during a traffic stop, but was wearing a bullet-resistant vest that the sheriff said saved his life, 13 WMAZ reports. The deputy, assisted by two other deputies and a police officer, was able to pursue his shooter and make an arrest.

Jones County Sheriff R.N. “Butch” Reese provided details of the incident on the Jones County Sheriff’s Office Facebook page. Deputy John Kile was able to pursue the suspect and with a coordinated effort along with Deputies Jackson and Sullivan and Officer Farley from the city (Gray, GA), managed to use tire spikes to safely stop the suspect before he could hurt anyone else.

Zachary Lucas Olivar, 24, of Snellville is being held at the Jones County Sheriff's Office without bond facing aggravated assault charges.

“I'm especially proud of the restraint shown by these officers when arresting Mr. Olivar,” Sheriff Reese said in his post. “On a personal note to the families of any law enforcement officers, please make sure your loved one wears their bulletproof vest, it can make all the difference in the world, it certainly did today.”

After the arrest, Deputy Kile was transported to the Medical Center, Atrium Health Navicent, where he was treated and released, according to 13 WMAZ .