The City of Hartford Police Department recently released body worn camera footage of a critical incident that nearly cost the life of a city officer.

In the early morning hours of October 26th, 2021, a female officer was stationary in a parking lot on Main Street when the unprovoked attack occurred. As shown in the footage, the suspect, later identified as Jose Cajigas, approached the officers cruiser, and began calmly communicating with the officer.

During the confrontation, the officer can be heard asking routine questions regarding the man’s health and safety. The officer requested Cajigas to take a seat on the hood of the cruiser, as he had stated he was intoxicated. Reports have indicated it was at this moment, Cajigas drew a firearm and began firing directly at the officer, striking the vehicle multiple times.

In response, the female officer took cover in her vehicle and maneuvered away from Cajigas. Additional officers were dispatched to the area, however; Cajigas had left the area. Officers located Cajigas shortly after and took him into custody. The firearm used in the shooting was also located and was booked as evidence.

The officer sustained shrapnel injuries and was fortunately unscathed by the point blank gun fire. Cajigas is facing numerous charges, respective to his attempted murder charges on the female officer.