Minn. police officer credits bulletproof vest

A Fairmont policeman shot in an ambush is crediting his bulletproof vest with saving his life.

Officer Chad Sanow talked with reporters Thursday for the first time since he was shot. Because of his vest, Sanow only suffered some bruising and a sore chest.

Sanow was arriving Oct. 26 at a house fire that police say was set by the homeowner to lure authorities. According to WCCO-TV, Sanow says he hadn't been out of his squad car for more than 30 seconds before he was shot. He likens the shotgun blast to getting hit by a truck.

Police say homeowner Michael Mathwig killed himself. Authorities say he was bitter toward police but don't know why he planned the ambush.

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A neighbor also was shot but has since left the hospital.

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Information from: WCCO-TV

(Copyright 2010 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.)