Saved By His Paca Vest

Posted on April 15, 2015

On August 23rd 2010, Scott County Sheriff Deputy Thomas Bowen traveled to the Purchase Ridge community in Virginia. He was serving a pair of warrants.

Pretty routine, or so he thought.

“I was shot once in my chest area, and then once in my arm,” says Bowen. Bowen was able to make it back to his car, and drive out to Route 23. He called dispatch and requested a chopper.

“That was basically my life-long dream was to work in law enforcement and fortunately I did get to do that for a brief period of time… But you know, things happen,” says Bowen. That night ended Bowen’s career. But it should have ended his life.

“I’m alive because I had my vest on. And that’s one thing I recommend to all officers. Those vests save lives. I’m living proof of that,” says Bowen.

Those vests came from Point Blank Enterprises. They make body armor for the military, police, security, and fire and emergency crews. Today personnel from Point Blank Enterprises delivered a plaque to Mr. Bowen; honoring his courageousness and celebrating his life.

“It’s an honor to be able to meet somebody who has been in a critical accident like that, and still be able to walk and talk. It’s very humbling to be able to deal with this type of incident, but at the same time, we’re very glad that we do what we do. And that we’re the best at what we do,” says Michael Beaver with Point Blank Enterprises.

And they aren’t the only humbled ones…

“It’s a great honor. Unfortunately, I hate that the events happened, but it’s good that people want to recognize you and the efforts that you put forth to serve the community and stuff,” says Bowen.

*****

Deputy Bowen was wearing a PACA vest with RH2D ballistic system at the time of the shooting. He was shot with a Hi-Point 45 cal. semi auto. Jim Benton Chief Deputy stated, “Had it not been for your vest Deputy Bowen would not have survived.”