Tampa Police Chief Eric Ward said during a news conference Monday that injured Officer Jose Rodriguez is in good spirits after being shot Saturday.
Rodriguez was shot after responding to reports of gunshots fired near a hotel parking lot in north Tampa. Upon arriving, Rodriguez and another officer exchanged shots with Patrick McManamon, who was killed.
Rodriguez, 53, was shot one time in the chest from a distance of about 20 feet. The bullet hit his body armor vest, which likely saved his life, officials said.
"Officer Rodriguez is in good spirits and excited to go home. (He) expressed appreciation for all the well wishes," said Ward, who added the 13-year veteran officer likely would released from the hospital on Monday.
Police say the incident started at 4 p.m. Saturday in a pickup truck at a Sunoco gas station on 30th Street. A witness called 911 and followed the suspects to the Hyatt Place Hotel, also on 30th Street.
According to TPD Sgt. Greg Van Hoyst, McManamon, 46, and Edward King were in the truck together with McManamon driving.
"We believe the passenger in the truck, King, received fatal wounds before police arrived," Van Hoyst said. "McManamon began firing at (officers), they were able to return fire, striking McManamon several times."
King, 51, was already dead once officers arrived at the Hyatt parking lot.
Chief Ward also explained the department's policy toward body armor.
"Every officer in the department is issued body armor," Ward said, "and wears it within the probation period of a year."
After that, each individual officer has the option to wear or not wear body armor. Variables in those options include assignments, heat and specific investigations being conducted.
"Every officer is issued body armor and we encourage them to use it," said Ward, who added the vests are $600 each. "Evidenced by this incident, it saves lives."