Suspect killed in Hall County SWAT shootout after officer shot, saved by vest in Gainesville

(CNN)- A tense standoff in Hall County ended in a deadly shootout, leaving a suspect dead and a police officer injured — but alive thanks to his protective gear.

Authorities say Hall County SWAT and Gainesville police officers exchanged gunfire with a suspect early Friday morning on Briarwood Drive. The suspect, later identified as 24-year-old Dakota Simmons, was killed during the confrontation.

The incident began around 10:30 Thursday night when a woman called 911, fearing for her life. When officers arrived, police say Simmons ran into a nearby home where another woman and two children were inside.

Officers were able to safely remove all three individuals from the home before engaging the suspect.

During the exchange, police say Simmons shot one officer. Officials later shared an image showing the bullet striking the officer’s police radio before lodging into his bulletproof vest — likely preventing a fatal injury.

Gainesville Police Chief Jay Parrish became emotional when describing the moment.

“It could have been my guy, and very thankful to God that he’s saved,” Parrish said.

Neighbors say the incident has shaken the typically quiet community.

“It’s scary, scary and I pray the police officer is OK, and I’m glad that they were able to get him out, but it’s really scary. This is a very quiet neighborhood,” said resident Tia Gardner.

According to police, the situation escalated when SWAT entered the home and the suspect attempted to flee through the front door, leading to another exchange of gunfire.

“There was one SWAT and two Gainesville police officers in the front yard that he engaged in a lot of gunfire, and we returned gunfire and sadly, he has succumbed to his injuries,” Parrish said. “No other deputies or officers were injured in that second round of gunfire.”

Authorities say the investigation into the incident is ongoing.