Gas Station Shootout on Police bodycam: Deputy Shot 5 Times

“He’s threatening a girl and she’s barricaded herself in the restroom.” Very soon after, a veteran sergeant arrived on the scene and attempted to make contact with the suspect by positioning himself behind Cardenas’ silver vehicle. Without warning, Cardenas bolted into the store and opened fire as the deputy approached. This quick escalation transformed the call into a life-or-death swerve. The sergeant took several shots to his legs while maintaining composure, ultimately reloading his weapon behind cover.

Though the sergeant initially fell to the ground, he calmly reported via radio, “I’m hit. Shots fired,” and “Send med. Suspect down.” He then re-engaged, dropping his spent magazine, inserting a fresh one, and neutralizing Cardenas moments later. Tragically, the suspect was pronounced dead at the scene; the deputy was critically wounded but did survive.

IN-DEPTH: HOW THE SHOOTOUT UNFOLDED

Gas Station Shootout on Police bodycam – This was no ordinary arrest. The deputy had just responded to a domestic violence-related 911 call when Cardenas opened fire without warning. The sergeant— a 16-year veteran—was hit in both legs and at the bottom of his foot, with one round through his Taser and grazing his vest. Injured, he fell but quickly composed himself, reloaded, and protected civilians by neutralizing the assailant.

Bodycam footage later publicly released reveals the gravity of the moment: spent magazines scattered and chaos unfolding as other deputies arrived on the scene. The video captured the split-second where the deputy reloaded under fire, and moments later, fired the decisive rounds that ended the threat.

During an official press briefing, Sheriff Shannon Dicus revealed that the sergeant sustained two gunshot wounds but had no life-threatening injuries and was expected to make a full recovery. The suspect, Cardenas, did not survive his injuries.

AFTERMATH AND OFFICER RECOVERY

Gas Station Shootout on Police bodycam – Following the shootout, the deputy was taken by ambulance and airlifted to Loma Linda University Medical Center, a major trauma center, where he began his recovery. His steadfast professionalism amid extreme danger was praised by both colleagues and leaders within the department.

Sheriff Dicus also addressed a concerning trend—an uptick in deputy-involved shootings in the region. He revealed that incidents had risen sharply, averaging nearly two per month, which was highly unusual compared to previous years. The bravery displayed in this case underscored how critical bodycam footage, swift response, and proper medical care can be in saving lives under fire.

IMPLICATIONS FOR LAW ENFORCEMENT AND COMMUNITY SAFETY

Gas Station Shootout on Police bodycam – This shootout serves as a stark reminder of the unpredictability police face—what begins as a domestic disturbance can escalate to deadly violence in seconds. The incident highlights the importance of protective gear, rapid reloading under pressure, and tactical training. It also reinforces calls for better domestic violence interventions and mental health support—which may help identify and de-escalate volatile situations before tragedy strikes.

Moreover, San Bernardino County’s focus on officer safety and community preparedness includes reviewing policies and trainings as the frequency of such shootings grows. Public awareness and cooperation remain key—because today’s routine can become tomorrow’s crisis.

A TALE OF COURAGE UNDER FIRE CAPTURE ON POLICE BODYCAM

This harrowing incident at Victorville’s ARCO AMPM shows how dangerously quickly a routine call can go sideways. A sergeant wounded but unbowed, reloaded under fire, and saved lives thanks to training and resolve. Cardenas, tragically, did not survive the confrontation. The aftermath revealed gaps in community safety and intense challenges for law enforcement today.

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Gas Station Shootout on Police bodycam

Gas Station Shootout on Police bodycam

Gas Station Shootout on Police bodycam