A 24-year-old Orlando police officer and UCF graduate is recovering after being shot Tuesday morning during a traffic stop, according to multiple reports.
Officer Jason Hajek was taken to Orlando Regional Medical Center where he underwent surgery after being shot in the stomach while performing a traffic stop around 2:30 a.m., police said.
The suspect, Demetrius Patterson, 23, was arrested for attempted first degree murder of a law enforcer and weapons possession, police said. According to Local 6, Patterson has faced 42 previous arrest charges. He was taken to a hospital for treatment after being struck in the foot during Hajek’s returned fire.
A photo taken by Hajek’s father and given to WFTV Channel 9 shows Hajek wearing his UCF cap and gown while holding his diploma.
Hajek was shot below his bulletproof vest just above his belt. Hajek’s father told Local 6 that Hajek was doing well, although a bullet pierced his bladder.
